Cacti Care

Cacti Care & Propagation

I prefer to keep Cacti in a category of their own.  While they are technically succulents, their needs are quite specific—especially when it comes to drainage and light.  They aren't always the best fit for indoor life, but with the right setup, they are incredibly tough and rewarding.

Potting Your New Arrival

I often post my cacti bare-rooted.  When your plant arrives, it’s important to get it settled into the right environment:

• The Mix: Cacti need a high ratio of drainage to soil—usually 50:50. I use a mix of quality potting soil and aerators like pumice or perlite.

• The Pot: Don’t be tempted to "over-pot." Choose a size that comfortably fits the roots without a massive amount of empty soil around it.

• Safety First: If you’re dealing with a spikey variety, use tongs or folded newspaper to hold the plant. I like to use a small stick or a labelling pencil to firm the soil around the roots to keep my fingers out of trouble! 

The Golden Rule: Do Not Water Yet

Once your cactus is potted, do not water it immediately.  * Why? This delay allows any roots that were damaged during transit or potting to "callus" over and heal. Watering too soon is the fastest way to cause rot.

• Summer: Wait about a week before giving it its first drink.

• Winter: If it’s winter, I wouldn't water at all until the weather warms up.

Light & Environment

While people often try to grow cacti as houseplants, they truly thrive outdoors. Ideally, find them the sunniest, driest spot you can—perhaps on a deck where you can control the watering.  They want all the sun they can get!

Propagation.

Cacti are surprisingly easy to grow from "pups" or offsets.  If your cactus has grown babies around the base, you can gently twist or cut them off.

• The Callus: This is the most important step!   Leave the cutting on a dry bench for a few days (or even a week for larger ones) until the cut end is dry and corky.

• Planting: Once callused, sit it on top of a gritty 50:50 mix. Don't bury it deep—just enough to stay upright.  Roots will find their way down in search of moisture.    Don't rush to water it.  Let it root first.