Echinocactus Grusonii

Here are some key care tips for the Echinocactus grusonii (Golden Barrel Cactus):
 
Light:
- Provide full. direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day. Bright shade is acceptable if temperatures are very hot.
- Insufficient light can cause the plant to etiolate (stretch) and lose its compact. barrel shape.
 
Water:
- Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. This cactus is very drought tolerant.
- In summer. water every 2-4 weeks when the soil is completely dry.
- In winter. reduce watering to once a month at most.
- Use a very well-draining potting mix designed for cacti and succulents.
- Avoid allowing water to sit in the crown. as this can cause rot.
 
Temperature:
- Warm temperatures of 70-90°F (21-32°C) in summer are ideal.
- Can tolerate temperatures down to around 40°F (4-5°C) in winter if kept dry.
- Protect from any frost or freezing temperatures.
 
Soil:
- Use a very porous. fast-draining cactus/succulent soil mix.
- A mix of 2 parts potting soil to 1 part perlite or pumice works well.
- Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
 
Fertilizing:
- Apply a balanced. diluted fertilizer 2-3 times in spring/summer.
- Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant.
 
The key is to replicate the hot. dry desert conditions this cactus evolved in. Overwatering. poor drainage. and lack of sunlight are the main threats. Otherwise. it is a very low-maintenance plant once established.