Caring for a rat tail cactus (also known as Aporocactus flagelliformis) is pretty straightforward once you know the basics. Here are some tips to help it thrive:

1. Light

• Bright, indirect light is ideal. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch their delicate stems. A spot near a window with filtered sunlight works great.

2. Watering

• Water sparingly. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is one of the main issues that can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering even further since the cactus goes dormant.

3. Soil

• Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. This helps prevent water from sitting around the roots and causing rot. If needed, add extra perlite or sand to ensure good drainage.

4. Temperature

• These cacti prefer warm temperatures (70°F to 90°F/21°C to 32°C) but can tolerate a range of temperatures. Just be sure to protect it from cold drafts, as it’s not frost-tolerant.

5. Humidity

• They’re fairly adaptable to different humidity levels but thrive in low to moderate humidity.

6. Fertilizing

• Feed with a diluted, balanced cactus fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Fertilizing once a month is usually enough. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

7. Repotting

• These cacti don’t need frequent repotting, but if it becomes root-bound or you notice the soil degrading, repotting every 2-3 years is a good idea. Choose a pot that’s just a bit larger than the current one.

8. Pruning

• You can prune any long, unruly stems to encourage bushier growth. Just make sure to use clean scissors or pruning shears to avoid transmitting any diseases.