Tips for Cacti & Succulents Care

It is often assumed that cacti and succulents need little care because they come from deserts. It is true in some sense, since they can tolerate a great deal of neglect. However, they are likely retreat into dormancy and look unattractive. Therefore, it is important to treat them fairly as other plants. The key factors are: soil, light, water, temperature, and nutrients.

Soil --- growing medium

Well-drained soil is important. They may rot from the roots up in poorly-drained soil. I use nursery mix, which is an all purpose soil mix for outdoor use. It is quite sandy, containing Top Soil, Garden Compost and Fine Redwood Amendment. Avoid heavy clay soil which drains poorly. Most cacti and succulents like a slightly acid soil (pH 5.5 ~ 6.5).

Light

Most cacti and succulents are best cultivated outdoors  with full sun (at least partial sun) in warm climate. However, if they are in small pots, full sun in summer might be too much for them ---- move them to a partial sun spot. If planting indoor, you may place them in front of the bright windows (not the ones facing north). Many succulents lose their vibrant colors if they don't get enough sunlight. They fade into green, and stay green unless they are moved to a sunny spot. An example is shown below.

Water

Probably the most frequent cause of death in cultivated cacti and succulents is overwatering! Do not water until the soil is almost dry. In general, cacti and succulents need watering in active growth (usually in spring, summer and early fall). They need little water while dormant (mainly in winter, occasionally in very hot summer days). Do not water them in winter in cool regions (below 10 ⁰C). Plants in small pot usually need more watering. A moisture meter becomes handy if you are not sure. Rule of thumb is: if you are not sure, don't water.

Temperature

Most of Cacti and succulents are sensitive to temperature as well as light. Extreme heat or cold can induce dormancy at anytime of the year. The plants will then remain dormant until the temperature returns to an appropriate range for growth. Many of them may be damaged by the frost in winter or early spring. Cover them or move them indoor to avoid such damage.

Nutrients

 Cacti and succulents are hungry plants that need regular feeding during the growing season (from spring to early fall): nitrogen (N) for vigorous top-growth; potassium (K) to encourage flowers and fruit; and phosphorus (P) for good root growth. I prefer soluble inorganic fertilizer due to their consistent chemical content. Apply them at the half strength recommended by the supplier for use with vegetables. Applying once a month will keep them health. No more than once a week.