Help me grow!

• Ideally, I should receive between six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day.
• I prefer dry, sandy and well-draining soils. A standard cactus or succulent potting mix is sufficient. You can even make your own potting mix at home by mixing equal parts potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite.
• I am extremely sensitive to overwatering and prone to root rot if exposed to too much moisture. Allow the soil to dry out thoroughly between the water schedules.
• I require warm, dry conditions and would not be able to tolerate frost or excess humidity.
• A yearly feed or application of a cactus or succulent fertilizer in the early spring would help boost my growth.
• You would be able to easily propagate me by cuttings.
• It is good to repot me every two to three years.
• I can occasionally be bothered by common pests such as mealybugs or scale. Both of these sap-sucking pests can be treated with regular applications of rubbing alcohol with a Q-tip or cotton swab to the affected areas.

FAQs

1. How long does it take for me to grow?
   I rather have a slow growth rate and take anywhere from 10 to 20 years to reach the ultimate height.
   
   
2. How do you keep me alive?
   I am quite sensitive to overwatering. Thoroughly soak the potting soil mix, and do not water again until the soil has completely dried out.
   
   
3. Why do you see me bending over?
   Usually, when I do not get enough light needed per day, I tend to literally stretch towards the nearest light source to absorb as much as I can.
   
   
4. Am I safe to pets?
   Generally, I am not toxic to animals, but you definitely need to be cautious of the spikes on me.