March
Usually by this month the show schedule is now ready for our show in July. Although this is only March, now is a good time to prepare for the show, have a good look at the schedule and find the most suitable classes that you can enter. If every member entered at least four classes we would have a great show, so please try and make the effort this year. If you think that you don't have any plants suitable for the Unlimited classes, take a look in the Limited, there is plenty to choose from.
Once the plants have been selected, then go ahead and re-pot, making sure that you have the correct size pot for Limited classes. (NB. Under size is allowed, but not over.)
The art of showing is to catch the judge's eye. Although the judges will be mainly looking at the plant, presentation can help. Make sure that you have a clean pot and one that is suitable for the plant. Most mammillarias, for instance, look better and grow better in a pan or half pot. Apply top-dressing grit, but do not use the coloured grit as this detracts attention from the plant. Add a clean, readable label and you are ready for the show.
Don't forget, if you require any further help about showing, there are plenty of experienced growers in the club willing to help.
Those plants which need water in March should be introduced to water slowly; spray a few times before you actually get out the watering can. Only water on bright, warmer days and, if possible, spray in the early morning so that the plants have time to dry off before temperatures drop in the evening. Some plants will not need any water in March, and these include Lithops, Conophytums, some Echinocerei and any cacti with tap roots such as Ariocarpus.
