How to Care for a Cactus

Source: wikiHow

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Cacti are often thought to be self-sufficient. While they are generally hardy, low-maintenance plants, they do need some care and attention in order to stay healthy and thrive. Once you pot your cactus, be sure to provide the right amount of sunlight, water, and fertilizer.

Then, take steps to deal with pests or diseases promptly if they become an issue.

1. 1 Select a pot size based on the type of roots your cactus has. If your cactus has a shallow root system that remains close to the surface of the soil, such as cholla or prickly pear, select a pot that is shallow with a large diameter. If your cactus has a deep root system, like saguaro or cardon, choose a pot that is narrow and deep.^[1]
   • Most cacti have shallow root systems. If you are unsure which type yours has, choose a pot that is somewhere in between (like a bonsai pot).
2. 2 Make sure the pot has drainage holes. Whether you choose a heavy, durable pot made of clay or an easy-to-clean plastic pot, just be sure that excess water can escape the container. Without drainage holes, the soil will remain too moist and this can lead to root rot and will eventually kill your cactus.^[2]
   • If you pick out a pot that doesn’t have adequate drainage, you can easily drill holes in it.
3. 3 Pick a potting mix specially made for cacti. You may be able to find a commercial mix that will make planting your cactus easy. Potting mix that is made for cacti is specially-formulated to allow for adequate drainage. Look for it at garden centers, home improvement stores, nurseries, or online.^[3]
   • As an alternative, make your own soil. Simply combine one-third horticultural soil (like commercial-grade potting mix), one-third high-quality horticultural sand (washed, coarse, and sharp), and one-third grit (such as porous gravel, lava fines, or fired clay). This mix will give your cactus the proper nutrients and drainage required to keep it healthy and thriving.^[4]
4. 4 Remove the cactus from the container it came in. The cactus likely came in a small plastic container, and it’s easy to remove the cactus so you can repot it. Put on gardening gloves to protect your hands from the cactus spikes. Tip the cactus upside down and gently squeeze the container while tugging gently on the cactus to remove it from the pot.
5. 5 Plant the cactus in the pot, then water it lightly. Simply fill your pot with the prepared soil, dig a hole a little larger than the root ball, and place the cactus in the hole. Lightly tamp down the soil around the cactus when you’re done. Then, lightly water the soil so it compacts. Aim to get the soil damp, but don’t soak it so much that water runs…

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