The Beginner’s Guide to Cactus Care

Many cacti and succulents are quite tough and therefore easier to grow than people suspect. They are ideal plants for the beginner and grow well as pot plants indoors, on a balcony or in a greenhouse. In warmer conditions, they look great as an addition to planting in a garden. 

Succulent plants, including the cactus and euphorbia family, have a highly specialised anatomy to enable them to survive prolonged drought. All are able to store moisture in fleshy tissue in their stems, roots, or leaves, and most have developed distinctive features to help reduce water loss and and withstand their hostile habitats. 

While commonly associated with deserts, they can also thrive indoors with proper care. Here’s what you need to know about taking care of your cactus.

Watering

Watering is one of the key aspects of cactus care. Since cacti store water in their leaves and stems, they don’t need frequent watering—typically once every one to two weeks.

Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the plant and causing root rot. Water slowly until the soil is evenly moist, and drain any excess from the saucer.

Avoid chlorine-treated water, as it can harm the roots and soil. If possible, use tepid rainwater or filtered water, as minerals in tap water can accumulate in the soil and disrupt nutrient flow to the plant.

Probably the most common cause of death in growing cacti and succulents is overwatering, which rots the plants. Most cacti and succulents survive long droughts, so if you are in doubt, don’t water them. They need some water during the growing period (spring and summer) and little to no water while dormant (winter). During the growing season water every 1-2 weeks; before watering, make sure the soil is completely dry. Stick your finger into the soil about an inch deep; if it's dry, then it's time to water. Plants in small pots may need more frequent watering. 

In winter, water the plants sparingly from time to time to stop the roots from drying out; in cooler places, stop watering during winter. 

Growing media - Soil 

Soil is key to proper cactus watering, as it impacts how water is absorbed and retained. A well-draining soil mix ensures excess water to flow away to prevent root rot. Regular potting soil that holds too much moisture can lead to overwatering, which is harmful to cacti. Choosing the right soil mix is essential for maintaining moisture balance and avoiding water-related problems.

Commercial potting mixes are available but you can always make your homemade cacti soil. 

Cactus soil is a specialised blend designed to meet the unique needs of cacti. It typically combines fast-draining organic and inorganic materials.

Mix two parts organic components with one part inorganic components. 

Organic components like pine bark, clay soil, and potting soil retain some moisture while keeping the mix light. Inorganic elements such as perlite, pumice, or coarse sand enhance drainage and prevent waterlogging.

This mix creates the perfect growing environment for cacti, replicating the well-draining conditions of their natural desert habitats.

Avoid these ingredients as they are designed to hold water and can therefore damage your plant. 

• Coconut Coir
• Bark shreds
• Vermiculite
• Manure
• Straw
• Compost
• Clay

Light 

When growing cacti indoors, they generally need bright, indirect sunlight. Place them near a window with 6-8 hours of sunlight daily, or use grow lights if natural light is limited.

If your cactus doesn’t get enough light, it may stretch and become "leggy," a condition called etiolation. To prevent this, place your cactus near a south- or west-facing window, or use grow lights to supplement.

Outdoors, cacti thrive in full sunlight and need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Choose a sunny spot in your garden or patio, but be mindful of extreme heat. During the hottest part of the day, providing some shade can prevent sunburn or heat stress.

Fertiliser 

Cacti and succulents are hungry plants that need regular feeding during the growing season with a balanced range of minerals. These include nitrogen for vigorous top-growth, potassium to encourage flowers, and phosphorus for good root growth. 

Fertilisers may be organic or inorganic and are available in powder, granular or liquid. Organic fertilisers like seaweed are a great, inexpensive choice. Cacti and succulents require feeding in two stages. At planting time, make sure you add a slow release granular fertiliser to the mix. When it is the growing season (spring and summer) add your organic liquid fertiliser like seaweed, but no more than twice a month. 

Note: most commercial cacti mix will have a slow-release fertiliser included in the mix.

Conclusion

Caring for cacti can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Their unique shapes and low-maintenance requirements make them excellent additions to any home or office. Just remember to give them plenty of sunlight, use well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering. By following these simple tips, you can cultivate a thriving cactus collection that adds beauty and a touch of desert charm to your space. So, embrace the prickly love and let your green thumb shine with these resilient and fascinating plants!