The Jungle Cactus with Giant Flowers: GREEN24 Specialized Fertilizer for Leaf Cacti
Leaf cacti (genus Epiphyllum and related) are not children of the desert but of tropical and subtropical forests. As epiphytes, they grow on trees and feed on what collects in branch forks. They therefore require completely different care than their spiny desert relatives: more water, higher humidity, and a fertilizer tailored to their needs as bloom-happy jungle dwellers. Our specialized fertilizer is exactly this success formula.
The World of Leaf Cacti (Epiphyllum Hybrids)
- Family: Cactaceae (Cactus family)
- Genus: Epiphyllum (and related genera like Disocactus, Selenicereus)
- Description: Epiphytically or lithophytically (on rocks) growing cacti with long, flat, leaf-like shoots called phyllocladiums. The edges are often notched or wavy. Spines are usually only present as fine bristles in the areoles.
- Origin: Tropical rainforests of Central and South America.
- Special Feature: The spectacular, often huge and colorful flowers that grow from the notches of the leaf segments. Many modern cultivars (Epiphyllum hybrids) offer incredible color and form diversity.
- Related Species: Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera), Easter Cactus (Hatiora).
The Science of Jungle Flowering
The Phosphorus-Potassium Flowering Formula
To maximize flowering, a leaf cactus needs special nutrient balance:
- Low Nitrogen (N): Too much nitrogen would only promote growth of green shoots and inhibit flower formation.
- Extremely High Phosphorus (P): The decisive trigger for bud formation. Rich phosphorus application after the winter rest period signals the plant to begin the flowering season.
- Very High Potassium (K): Ensures large, stable flowers, bright colors, and general health and resistance of the plant.
- Magnesium & Trace Elements: Prevent leaf yellowing and support photosynthesis in the green shoots.
Application: Through Root and Leaf to Success
Root Feeding (Standard Method)
- Dosage: 2-3ml per 1 liter of water
- Frequency: During growing and flowering season (approximately March to August) every 2 weeks.
- Important: Reduce fertilizing after flowering and completely stop during winter rest period (place cooler and drier) to stimulate bud formation for the next year.
Foliar Feeding (Quick Vitality Kick)
As epiphytes, leaf cacti are excellently adapted to nutrient uptake through leaves.
- Dosage: 1ml per 1 liter of water (reduced concentration!)
- Application: Spray shoots well from all sides until dripping wet. Ideal in morning or evening hours.
- Frequency: Can be applied every 2-3 weeks in addition to root feeding for weakened plants or quick nutrient supply.
Mandatory Application Instructions
- Mandatory observance of information sheet 130405! This can be found at URL https://www.green24.de/NPK.pdf
- Always observe the label!
- Do not apply undiluted.
- Shake well before use.
- Only apply during the growing season.
Safety Instructions
- Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing.
- Do not inhale spray or spray mist.
- Keep away from food and beverages.
- Wash face and hands thoroughly after use.
- Official advisory recommendations take precedence.
- Fertilizers may leave stains on surfaces that may not be removable.
Storage
- Store dry, dark at +8°C to +40°C.
- Keep out of reach of children and animals.
- Fertilizer must not be introduced into water bodies or reach wastewater.
- With proper storage, stable for several years without quality loss.
- Use diluted fertilizer promptly.