Question
I bought a nice cereus cutting on ebay.  When it arrived I planted it in a 10 inch pot with a soil mix for cacti.  It seemed to survive the winter as it is still green and fairly firm.  I kept it fairly dry while it was inside during our Kentucky winter.  Now that it has warmed up significantly, I have placed the cactus outside in full sun.  I noticed last week that it has scale.  I treated it using a soap product.  I have noticed no new growth.  I understood that these plants are vigorous growers.  It is now over 85 degrees here consistently. Do I need to water more often?  Do these respond to fertilizer?  Are cuttings slow to start growing?  Any info on these plants will be helpful.  Thanks!  The cutting is probably about two feet tall and 5-6" in diameter.

Answer
Dear Scott,

Generally they are vigorous growers, after roots form. Water initially with a product called "superthrive" for the first few waterings. Do not fertilize the plant until it is growing well and then only use 50% of the recomended amount.

Also, since this plant was indoors all winter, put it in a location with partial shade until it starts some new growth, then move into full sunlight. And do not rotate the plant. Always keep the same side facing south. Hope this helps. Good luck!

Sincerely,

Greg