Cacti are not only tough plants that immediately give your interior a cool look, they are also super easy to care for. So, whether you are a beginner or already a cacti expert, this plant is perfect for any plant lover. Want to know how to keep your cactus happy? Read on!
- Location, location, location!
Cacti love the sun! Place your cactus in a spot where it gets a lot of daylight. A south-facing windowsill is ideal, because that is where the most sun comes. They are real sun worshippers and need at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow well. Make sure your cactus is not in a place that is too dark, because it can wilt there.
- Tip:: Turn your cactus occasionally to ensure even growth.
- Watering: Less is more
One of the most important things to know about cacti is that they do not need a lot of water. In fact, you should not water them too often, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out thoroughly between waterings before watering again. In the summer, when the cactus is actively growing, you can water it once every 2 to 3 weeks. In the winter, when growth slows down, you can reduce watering even further.
- Tip:: Water directly into the soil, not on the cactus itself, so you don't get water in the plant's axils, which can lead to rot.
- The right soil
Cacti need a well-drained soil so that water can drain quickly and the roots do not rot. Use a special cactus soil or mix some sand into your potting soil for extra drainage. Also make sure that the pot has a hole in the bottom so that excess water can drain away.
- Tip:: Use a mix of cactus soil, perlite and sand for perfect drainage.
- Temperature: Warm and dry
Cacti love warmth! Most varieties do well at temperatures between 18°C and 30°C. They can also tolerate a bit of cold, but don't put them in a cold draughty place or right next to a heater. Too much cold can weaken the plant and slow down growth.
- Tip:: Do not place your cactus near cold windows or doors during the winter.
- Nutrition: Not too much
Cacti don't need much nutrition, but during the growing season (spring and summer) you can give them some fertilizer every now and then. Use a cactus or succulent fertilizer, and do this a maximum of once a month. In the fall and winter your cactus does not need fertilizer, because it is dormant then.
- Tip:: Too much fertilizer can damage your cactus, so feed sparingly.
- Pests: Keep an eye on them
Although cacti generally not prone to pests, they can sometimes be affected by mold or insects such as spider mites and mealybugs. Check your cactus regularly for dirty spots or white, fluffy spots. If you find pests, treat the plant with a mild insecticide or use a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap.
- Tip:: Remove any dead leaves or damaged parts of your cactus to prevent disease.
- Repotting: Give your cactus room to grow
Cacti grow slowly, but you may need to repot them occasionally if they outgrow their pot. This is best done in spring, when the plant starts growing. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and ensure adequate drainage.
- Tip:: Be careful with the spines when repotting the cactus! Use gloves or a thick cloth to hold the cactus.
- Wait Patiently: Cacti Grow Slowly
Cacti are known for their slow growth. It may take months before you see a noticeable change, but be patient! It is this slow growth that cacti so special. And rest assured, if you give it the right care, your cactus will stay happy and healthy, no matter how slow it grows.
