Opuntia cochenillifera syn. Nopalea cochenillifera

Opuntia cochenillifera can be propagated from seeds or from pads. Growing Opuntia cochenillifera from pad is comparatively easy than seeds. To facilitate the rooting it is preferable to wait until the cuts are perfectly healed (about 1 – 2 week) before planting. Tuck them an inch deep on the ground or in containers. The rooting take place in a short time, usually in a month. Save the rooting pad from afternoon sun and water it when top one inch of soil seems dry.

Growing Opuntia cochenillifera on a sunny location allows the plant to thrive and fruit. It is a tropical plant so it loves warm exposure. However, it can withstand temperatures down to -10C but in areas with harsh winters it is good to plant it on a sheltered spot, near a wall or tall tree to protect it from cold drafts and fluctuation in temperature. If you’re living in a cooler climate, growing Opuntia cochenillifera in a container is the better option for you as it can only be grown on the ground where winter temperature remains above 10C.