Why golden barrel cacti propagate pups

Question

We have a number of 12-15 year old golden barrel cacti in our yard. Recently, some have begun to spawn pups and others have not. Is there a reason why some do and others don’t?

Answer 1

The Barrel Cactus is growing little Cactus pups and it is part of the natural growth pattern for this plant.
You can remove them and grow new plants.

Here is a few articles that have more information.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/scgen/removing-cactus-pups.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/barrel-cactus/barrel-cactus-care.htm