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Opuntia Oricola, rare chaparral pricklypear cactus exotic nopal seed 20 SEEDSCactus seedlings are very fragile on the first weeks and survival depends on how they are treated on that crucial stage; out of 100 of seeds in the wild only a few survive to an adult plant to produce seeds and start the cycle again. Obtaining a high percentage of adult plants from a batch of seedlings, depends on how each collector takes care of their seedlings.
Water for seedlings is the most important item to keep them growing for first few weeks. Generally, most seedlings, which are 1 week old will die after 3 days of dryness. 2 month-old seedlings can survive for 1 week if allowed to dry. 6 month-old seedlings can survive for 2 months if allowed to dry. 1 year-old seedlings can survive for 5 months if allowed to dry.
Light is very important once the seeds begin to germinate; studies show seeds on any light condition (even dark) will germinate if keep in a humid atmosphere and ideal temperature but everything changes once they sprout. After germination, they need the right wave of light (color) in order to obtain good results. Perfect light is always sunlight filtered with shade cloths or poly cover.
Air circulation: If the seedling are kept inside a house with air conditioning under artificial light or windowsill this will not be a problem. Even under a tree, most of the time, the conditions will be good for seedlings; but if the seedlings are kept in a greenhouse or enclosure, it is most important to keep them well ventilation. Air flow must be continuous to keep away the conditions that result in molds and/or fungus reproduction.