I have a cactus that came in a pot with three small slots around the sides and the one big one on top. The flowers grow out the holes . I say flowers because they look like flowers and not really a cactus what kind of cactus is it and should i repot it?
by 
swilson
ANSWERS: 4
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It flowers out of the holes/slots but does not grow otherwise through them? Can you tell how 'free' the soil is? (Sand/vermiculite content/how fast water goes through)? A picture would be useful, but it sounds like a succulent and shouldn't be repotted until the base of the main plant is 25-30% away from the edge of the top. Repotting never hurts but it can make an awkward ornamental plant. Also, cacti grow verrrrrrry slowly, but most succulents grow quickly, gobble up water and are almost like a regular plant.
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if you can post a pic i'll identify it
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Sounds like "hens and chicks".
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The kind of pot you're using is known as an "orchid pot" and I am keen on these for my desert plants that demand very good drainage. The side holes make it practically impossible to over-water them, which is the biggest cause of cactus and succulent death. The succulent world in general is very well adapted to vegetative propagation, which is essentially the plant cloning itself. This is because they originate in dry climates where it can be tough for seed to sprout and survive. This alternative method is the "Plan B" for survival and spread of the species. I've seen succulents creating new shots on roots, on seed stalks and virtually any other part of their bodies. Since the roots of your have exposure to light through the pot slots, they are producing shoots there. You can leave them in place or sever to start whole new plants. But don't repot as it's probably happy right where it is.
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