Not sure very hard to id for me maybe a Trichocereus Camarguensis

So you believe it is at least a tricho? Phew, that makes me feel better lol. Thank you for your input.

Your welcome defiantly a trichocereus

Defiantly a Trichocereus, even though some people want to call it an Echinopsis. Yeah, i like that.

Austin6219

What is topdressing (I can't tell from the photo) - sand? gravel? turface?

I have a question for any expert:
aren't they planted little too deep?
I think if topdressed with gravel it wouldn't be a problem - pls. correct me if wrong.

TIA> Rina

It is coarse builders sand. I am new to the world of young cuttings so they may very well be too deep. Lol

Austin, I use topdressing a lot - usually small gravel or chicken grit. I just couldn't tell from the photo if it is something that won't cause dampness so close to the plant.
Always concerned about rotting...Rina

Rina what do you find to be the best top dressing? I have a few gasteria pups that I bought that were top dressed in what looks to be a dark gravel do you think that would be ok? Sorry Austin please forgive me I'm really not trying to hijack your thread just know Rina is experienced in this area and thought I'd ask b4 I forget lol ðÂÂÂ

I am not that experienced...but reading this forum for about 2yrs I hope I picked up few tips.

I believe as long as it is inorganic, it's good.
I don't think color of top dressing would make too much difference. Maybe in very hot areas, with sun baking whole day? Then, maybe reflective heat could make difference - just guessing here.

I used anything including fish tank gravel (picked-up some 50lb on freecycle that is dark green; btw as far as mixing fish tank gravel into potting mix -size is good- someone mentioned that is better to avoid colored gravel?-); white chicken grit, small grayish color gravel called around here 'pea gravel', glass marbles...just about anything. As long as it keeps succulents dry (and squirrels from digging into pots!!!).
It also helps to keep new-planted cuttings/plants anchored in pot. I have seen sea shells used as top dressing (not sure if they add too much calcium?).

{{gwi:681873}} {{gwi:681875}} {{gwi:681877}}
{{gwi:681879}}

(1.chicken gravel; 2.chicken gravel & aquarium gravel mix; 3.pea gravel; 4.decorative pebbles)

Rina

Thanks Rina! I appreciate it!