Cacti Care Guide
Cacti are resilient, low-maintenance plants that add a unique touch to your space. They’re not just spiky decor—they’re tough little survivors that, with the right care, will thrive and look great for years to come. Whether you’re new to the cactus game or a seasoned collector, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your cacti happy and healthy.
Light Requirements
Cacti love bright, direct sunlight—at least 6 hours a day is ideal. South-facing windows are prime real estate, but any bright spot will do. If your cactus starts looking a bit stretched out or “leggy,” it’s reaching for more light, so consider rotating it every few days to ensure even exposure. Natural sunlight is always the best, but if you’re stuck in a dim space, a good quality grow light can help keep your cactus content.
Watering
Cacti are built to survive droughts, so they don't need much watering. The golden rule is the “soak and dry” method:
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot—don’t just give it a sip!
Let the soil dry out completely between waterings—this usually takes 3-4 weeks, but always check the soil first.
Cut back on watering in cooler months when the cactus is dormant, as too much moisture can lead to rot.
Never mist your cactus—unlike tropical plants, they don’t need extra humidity and prefer staying dry.
When in doubt, it’s better to underwater than overwater. Signs of overwatering include squishy, discoloured stems, while under watered cacti might look wrinkled or shrivelled but will perk up after a good soak.
Soil and Potting
The right soil is key to keeping your cactus healthy. A gritty, well-draining mix is essential—cactus and succulent potting soils work great, or you can DIY with potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite.
Pot choice matters too! Terra cotta pots are great because they allow moisture to evaporate, preventing soggy roots. Always choose pots with drainage holes—no exceptions! Repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and give your cactus a little extra room to grow. The best time to repot is in spring when growth kicks back into gear.
Temperature and Humidity
Cacti thrive in warm, dry environments—think desert conditions. Keep indoor temperatures between 18-29°C and avoid placing them near drafty windows or cold spots. Humidity is not your cactus’s friend, so skip the humidifier and keep them out of steamy bathrooms.
Fertilising
Feeding your cactus isn’t a must, but a little boost during the growing season (spring and summer) can keep it looking vibrant. Use a cactus-specific fertiliser diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks. Don’t fertilize during the fall and winter—your cactus doesn’t need the extra nutrients when it’s not actively growing.
Remember, less is more when it comes to feeding—over-fertilising can weaken your plant and lead to soft, leggy growth.
Common Problems
Overwatering: Stems become soft and mushy, and root rot sets in. Let the soil dry out and cut off any rotting parts.
Underwatering: Your cactus may look wrinkled or shriveled—give it a thorough soak and adjust your watering schedule.
Lack of Light: Stems stretch out and become thin. Move to a brighter spot to encourage compact, healthy growth.
Pests: Common culprits include mealybugs and spider mites. Treat infestations promptly with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap.
Propagation
Want to expand your cactus collection? Propagation is pretty straightforward:
Cut a healthy piece from the parent plant with a clean, sharp knife.
Let the cut end callous over for a few days to prevent rot.
Plant it in well-draining soil and water sparingly until roots form.
You can also grow cacti from seeds or offsets, but be prepared for a slower journey. Propagating is a fun way to multiply your cactus collection without breaking the bank!
Seasonal Care
Winter: Reduce watering significantly and skip fertilizer—your cactus is in hibernation mode.
Summer: Increase light exposure and keep up with watering, but be mindful of scorching from intense sun.
With just a little care and the right conditions, your cacti will thrive and become a stunning, low-maintenance addition to your indoor garden.
Happy growing!
