Green Tomato Cactus

Green Tomato Cactus

04/11/25
I repotted on 4/29/25

Green Tomato Cactus, also known as Parodia crassigibba, thrives in bright, sunny conditions and requires infrequent watering. It prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot and should be fertilized with a cactus-specific fertilizer during the warmer months.

Soak and Dry Method:
Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then allow the soil to dry almost completely before watering again.

Check Soil Moisture:
Use a finger or a thin tool to check the soil moisture. It should feel dry at least an inch below the surface.

Observe Cactus:
A thirsty cactus may appear pale or shriveled, while an overwatered one might have mushy stems or black spots.

Potting Mix:
Use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.

Bottom Watering:
Consider bottom watering (placing the pot in a tray of water) as an alternative method, especially if the soil is hydrophobic.

Seasonal Adjustments:
Water more frequently during spring and summer, less often in fall and winter.

Light Conditions:
If your cactus isn't getting enough light, it may need less water, as it's not photosynthesizing as much.

Take on 06/04/25

🌸 Do the Flowers Die on the Green Tomato Cactus?

✅ Yes, they do.
Cactus flowers are usually short-lived, lasting anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the species, environment, and time of year.

🌿 What Happens After Flowering?

The flower blooms, usually in warm months with good sun.
After blooming:

The petals wilt and fall off.
The flower base may dry up and fall off, or
It might develop into a fruit (rare indoors but possible outdoors or in greenhouses).

You can gently remove dead flowers once they’ve dried up, to keep the plant tidy and avoid rotting.

🌵 Parodia / Notocactus Care Card

🪴 Basic Info:

Botanical name: Parodia (formerly Notocactus)
Common names: Balloon cactus, Golden Ball cactus (varies by species)
Origin: South America
Growth: Slow-growing, globular shape

☀️ Light

Bright indirect light preferred
Can tolerate some morning sun
Avoid intense afternoon sun indoors (can scorch)

💧 Water

Water only when the soil is completely dry
Let excess water drain fully
Reduce watering in winter (once every 4–6 weeks)

🪨 Soil

Use cactus/succulent mix
Optional: Add extra perlite or pumice for drainage

🌡️ Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F during growing season
Tolerates down to 50°F during winter dormancy
Protect from frost

🌼 Flowering

Blooms in spring/summer
Bright purple, yellow, or pink flowers
Short-lived blooms (1–3 days)
May rebloom multiple times in warm seasons

🌸 After Flowers Fade

Wait until flowers are dry
Gently pinch or snip off spent blooms
You may find tiny seed pods inside (see below!)

🌱 Optional: Saving Seeds

Let flower bases fully dry on the plant
Gently open dried bloom to collect seeds
Sow in cactus mix, keep warm and humid to germinate

🧪 Fertilizer (Optional)

Use diluted cactus fertilizer (1/4 strength)
Apply once per month during spring and summer
Don’t fertilize in fall or winter

🪴 Repotting

Repot every 2–3 years or when rootbound
Use a pot with drainage holes
Best repotted in spring before active growth

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