Cactus Plants

While cacti are drought-tolerant, they do need water. Generally, it's recommended to water your cactus once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and less frequently during the dormant season (fall and winter). The watering needs might change depending on the cactus species and its environment. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to touch. Overwatering can cause root rot, a common problem for cacti.

Cacti are sun-loving plants and thrive in bright light. Ideally, they should receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day. However, different cacti species have different light requirements. For instance, the Blue Candle and Yellow Tower cacti love full sun exposure, whereas the Fairy Castle can tolerate some shade. It's essential to research your specific cactus variety to provide it with the optimal lighting conditions.

Cacti require well-draining soil to prevent water from pooling around their roots, which could lead to root rot. A good cactus soil mix usually contains organic material for nutrients and inorganic material for drainage, such as sand, perlite, or grit. You can buy commercial cactus soil mixes or make your own by combining regular potting soil with coarse sand and perlite.

Cacti are very adaptable and can grow both indoors and outdoors as long as they get enough sunlight and are not overwatered. Many cacti species, such as the Ball and Column cacti, make excellent indoor plants due to their compact size and low maintenance needs. However, larger cacti such as the Yellow Tower might be better suited for outdoor gardens where they can fully spread out and grow.