opuntia microdasys / bunny ear cactus - starter plant

The Bunny Ear Cactus, scientifically known as Opuntia microdasys, is a charming and distinctive houseplant appreciated for its unique appearance and low-maintenance nature. Native to Mexico, this cactus is popularly grown indoors for its flattened, pad-like stems and the soft, glochid spines that resemble furry bunny ears, hence its name.

Appearance:
The Bunny Ear Cactus consists of flat, oval-shaped pads covered with tiny, golden or white glochid spines that give the plant a soft, velvety texture. These pads, resembling bunny ears, are arranged in pairs along the stems. In spring and summer, the cactus may produce bright yellow flowers, followed by small, edible fruits. Its compact and sculptural form makes it an eye-catching addition to any indoor space.

Required Care:

Light: Bunny Ear Cactus thrives in bright, direct sunlight. Place it near a sunny window where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. A south or west-facing window is ideal. Lack of sunlight can lead to elongated and weak growth.

Temperature: This cactus prefers warm temperatures between 70°F to 100°F (21°C to 38°C) during the day. It can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter but should be protected from frost. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.

Watering: Bunny Ear Cactus is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the growing season (spring and summer), water the cactus sparingly, and reduce watering in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Soil: Plant the Bunny Ear Cactus in well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. Adding sand or perlite to the soil can enhance drainage and prevent waterlogging.

Pot: Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent excess water retention. Repot the cactus when it outgrows its current container, typically every 2-3 years, using fresh cactus soil.

Fertilization: Bunny Ear Cactus requires minimal fertilization. Feed the plant with a diluted, balanced cactus fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to weak growth.

Handling: Be cautious while handling Bunny Ear Cactus due to its glochid spines, which can be irritating to the skin. Use tongs or thick gloves when necessary to avoid getting pricked.

With its adorable appearance and easy-care requirements, the Bunny Ear Cactus is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts, adding a touch of southwestern charm to your indoor garden.


Instructions for Repotting Starter Plugs of Plants:

Materials Needed:

-Starter plugs or seedlings
-New pots with drainage holes
-High-quality potting mix
-Watering can or spray bottle
-Small trowel or spoon
-Optional: gloves, plant labels, and marker
Steps:

1. Prepare the New Pots: Choose pots that are slightly larger than the starter plugs. Ensure they have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. Clean the pots thoroughly, especially if they have been used before, to remove any pathogens.

2. Prepare the Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix appropriate for the type of plants you are repotting. Moisten the mix slightly to make it easier to work with but avoid it being overly wet.

3. Remove Plants from Starter Plugs: Carefully remove the plants from the starter plugs. Gently squeeze the bottom of the plug or use a pencil to push the plant out if it’s stuck. Be gentle to avoid damaging the roots.

4. Add Potting Mix to New Pots: Fill the new pots one-third to one-half full with the prepared potting mix. Adjust the level based on the size of the starter plug and the plant's root system.

5. Place Plants in New Pots: Create a small hole in the center of the potting mix in the new pot. Place the plant’s roots into the hole, ensuring the top of the starter plug is level with the pot's rim.

6. Fill the Pots with Potting Mix: Gently fill the space around the roots with potting mix, pressing it down lightly to remove air pockets. Leave about an inch of space between the top of the potting mix and the rim of the pot.

7. Water the Plants: After repotting, water the plants thoroughly. Allow excess water to drain out from the bottom of the pot. This helps settle the soil and ensures the roots are in good contact with the new potting mix.

8. Provide Proper Care: Place the newly repotted plants in an appropriate environment. This includes providing the right amount of light, water, and humidity according to the specific plant's needs.

9. Label the Plants (Optional): If you're repotting different types of plants, consider labeling them with plant tags and a marker. This helps you keep track of the plants' names and care requirements. See example for this plant in images. This is available as a digital file for purchase under my shop's listings.

10. Monitor and Adjust: Keep a close eye on the repotted plants over the next few weeks. Watch for signs of stress or inadequate moisture. Adjust your care routine as needed to help the plants acclimate to their new pots and continue to thrive.