How to grow Prickly Pear

Opuntia polyacantha

Grows best in well drained soil. High moisture during winter is especially detrimental.

Throw cactus pads onto any quick draining soil. Can be partially buried if desired.

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Prickly pear is a hardy plant.

Blend seed pods in a blender with lots of water. Dump off pulp. Ferment for 3-5 days. Rinse well and dry.

These estimates for how long Prickly pear takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.

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Days to Maturity How long until Prickly pear is ready for harvest / bloom?: + days
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Plains prickly pear, Prickly pear cactus

Opuntia rutila, Opuntia rutila Nutt. & A.Gray