If you wish to decorate your house without having to maintain your plants too much, the cactus is an adequate green plant. On the other hand, the cactus is rather sensitive concerning its climate of evolution. Whether it is indoors or outdoors, in a dry or humid, hot or cold climate, here are all the tips you need to know to maintain your cactus.
1/ The climate of the cactus
The cactus comes from the very hot and dry areas of the American deserts. If you live in a region where the climate is warm, with mild winters and temperatures rarely going below the negative threshold (the south of France for example), you will be able to grow a cactus in the ground without difficulty.
On the other hand, if you live in a region with a temperate climate, with cold temperatures in winter (northern France, mountainous regions), it is advisable to grow the cactus in a pot, because you will be able to place your cactus outside during the warm seasons, and inside when the temperatures have dropped. Cacti do not tolerate sub-zero temperatures.
The living conditions of the cactus and its acclimatization to your environment may vary depending on the species of the plant, so it is advisable to ask your supplier for information.
2/ The humidity of the environment
The cactus is very sensitive to the humidity of your environment. For some species of this plant, the humidity factor is vital, as the cactus does not tolerate being exposed to this type of environment. The fluffy varieties will develop very badly with humid air, because it favors the arrival of insects (mealy bugs) or the rotting of the plant. We find in this category the candle cactus, the pickle cactus, the fierce cactus, the melon cactus, the blueberry cactus or the snowshoe cactus.
On the other hand, there are also species that adapt well to a humid environment: the sea urchin cactus, the Acanthocalycium…
3/Light
Depending on the species, the cactus will grow more or less. Some must be exposed directly to the sun’s rays, such as the Acanthocalycium, the sea urchin or woolly cactus. Other species do not tolerate the sun, especially during the hottest hours: the leafy cactus, the Echinofossulocactus…
4/ Planting substrates
Generally speaking, all cacti need a substrate that provides a draining and aerated mixture. Topsoil, sand and gravel mixed together will be perfect to see your cactus grow properly. Adding cactus fertilizer regularly is a plus.
5/ Watering the cactus
You should not water your cactus in winter, because this dehydration will allow a beautiful flowering in spring. In summer it is advisable to water the cactus at the root ball level, generally once every two weeks. Watering too often will cause rot and insects to appear, as mentioned above.
6/ Repotting the cactus
It is advisable to change the pot of the cactus every two to three years. Since cacti like to live in a narrow space, you should use pots that are a hair larger than the root ball.
I have 30 years of experience and i started this website to see if i could try and share my knowledge to help you.
With a degree a Horticulture BSc (Hons)
I have worked as a horticulture specialist lead gardener, garden landscaper, and of course i am a hobby gardener at home in my own garden.
Please if you have any questions leave them on the article and i will get back to you personally.
