How Do You Grow Prickly Pear Cactus?
Prickly pear cactus has over 200 Opuntia species and grows in the wild even in Michigan. Potted plants grow up to 12 inches, but reach heights of 10 feet in dry southern regions. This cactus produces edible stems and its fruit tastes somewhat like kiwi, making it a good choice for jam and jelly. The purebred cactus grows bright yellow flowers three to four inches wide by mid-summer. Here is how to grow your own prickly pear cactus. Choose a potted plant for indoors or consider growing the cactus in a rock garden. Read the label for your zone when planting outside; some species are not snow- or frost-resistant. Provide good drainage with pre-made cactus mix or a mixture of sand and pumice. Place the prickly pear cactus in a location that receives full sun or a small amount of shade. Water the soil lightly and only when dry. To grow a new plant from the original one, remove a side pad from its supporting pad with a knife and place one inch in another pot or location. Wear garden gloves w
