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The Echinocactus grusonii is a cactus native to the arid regions of Mexico
the rounded shape and numerous thorns have meant that this plant is called 'Mother-in-law's Pillow.
This plant is easy to grow. It does not require excessive watering; you should provide water only during the period from March to September
If plants are kept in the apartment for the whole year you should spray them in moderation
but if they are placed outdoors during the summer you should water occasionally but with a good amount of water, so as to wet the entire substrate contained in the pot
However, watering is necessary only once every 7-10 days, when the substrate is completely dry
We try to place the plant in a very bright place, possibly one exposed to direct sunlight throughout the year, and avoid draughts and air currents
In the wild, these plants can even stand short periods with very low temperatures, as long as they do not receive water during the frost
and may therefore also be grown outside, but only if you can provide a very dry place, where the plant does not receive rainfall during the cold season
or otherwise you can grow it indoors
Every 2-3 years you should repot the grusonii, using a good loam for succulent plants, consisting of little universal soil, mixed with pumice stone and sand, so as to ensure excellent drainage
the new container should be only a little larger than that in which the plant was growing before, since these plants seem to prefer containers that are restrictive in size
Periodically check that the plant is not being attacked by scale insects, which are parasites that lurk in the soil or among the thorns of the cactus
If you see just a few of them you can remove them by using a cotton swab moistened with alcohol, but if the infestation is larger, spray the whole plant with mineral oil