Provide weekly waterings from March to October, irrigating whenever soil is dry. Include a diluted, low-nitrogen content fertilizer, unless the soil is rich. After September, stop fertilizing, and only water when necessary, to preserve growth. The wavy bunny ears succulent should be planted in permeable, well-draining mineral soil, with a pH from 6.1 to 7.8. Site in a clay pot just slightly larger than the plant’s existing root system, and repot as needed to encourage growth.Full sun to partial shade is necessary for this species. For indoor plants with inadequate sun, a grow-light may be needed for up to 14-16 hours each day. Wavy bunny ears is frost hardy down to 0°F, USDA Hardiness Zones 7a to 11, provided that atmospheric humidity is zero.
Propagation is possible through grafting, and woody and softwood cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in hot weather, with a sterile knife, and allowed to callous before planting. Provide a tray of cactus soil covered with a layer of grit, to allow the roots to grow without exposing the cutting to moisture.
Because of the diversity in development, crested forms of Opuntia microdasys may revert to normal growth without cause. These portions should be removed, to allow the crested forma to resume healthy growth. Additionally, during the winter, a rest period should be observed with little water and no atmospheric humidity. For the rest of the year, however, humidity is preferred between 10 and 30 percent. Be alert for additional ailments such as mealybugs, scale insects, and stem rot.
