Written By Cacti are some of the most popular houseplants around, and for good reason. They’re easy to care for, come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can add a touch of desert charm to any home. However, caring for cacti isn’t as simple as just watering them once in a while. In this article, we’ll go over the dos and don’ts of succulent maintenance to help you keep your cacti healthy and thriving.
Do: Use well-draining soil
Cacti are desert plants, which means they’re used to dry, sandy soil. When planting your cactus, make sure to use a well-draining soil mix that’s specifically designed for succulents. This will help prevent root rot and other issues that can arise from overwatering.
Don’t: Overwater your cactus
One of the biggest mistakes people make when caring for cacti is overwatering them. Cacti are adapted to survive in dry conditions, so they don’t need to be watered as often as other houseplants. In fact, overwatering can be fatal to your cactus. Make sure to let the soil dry out completely between waterings, and only water your cactus when the soil is completely dry.
Do: Provide plenty of sunlight
Cacti need plenty of sunlight to thrive, so make sure to place your cactus in a sunny spot in your home. A south-facing window is ideal, but any window that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day should work. If you don’t have a sunny window, you can also use a grow light to provide your cactus with the light it needs.
Don’t: Expose your cactus to extreme temperatures
While cacti are adapted to survive in hot, dry conditions, they can still be damaged by extreme temperatures. Make sure to keep your cactus away from cold drafts and heat sources like radiators and heaters. If you live in a climate with extreme temperatures, consider keeping your cactus indoors year-round.
Do: Fertilize your cactus
While cacti don’t need to be fertilized as often as other houseplants, they still benefit from occasional feedings. Use a fertilizer that’s specifically designed for cacti and succulents, and follow the instructions on the package carefully. Over-fertilizing can be just as harmful as under-fertilizing, so make sure to use the right amount.
Don’t: Touch your cactus
Cacti are covered in spines for a reason – they don’t like to be touched! Avoid handling your cactus as much as possible, as this can damage the plant and even cause injury to you. If you need to move your cactus, use gloves or a towel to protect your hands.
In conclusion, caring for cacti is easy as long as you follow a few simple rules. Use well-draining soil, don’t overwater your cactus, provide plenty of sunlight, avoid extreme temperatures, fertilize occasionally, and don’t touch your cactus. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to keep your cacti healthy and thriving for years to come.
