Houseplants: How to Grow a Cactus

Cactus is an easy-to-care plant that can live up to 50 years. In the article we will talk about the rules of cultivation and care.

What should be a pot for a cactus

Pots for cacti must have bottom holes. They will provide the necessary drainage of the roots. At the same time, a well-chosen planter material will perfectly retain the thermal energy accumulated over the whole day, even at night.

Place

The best option would be a kitchen, some kind of window sill, a hallway and a table at which you work. The cactus needs to be provided with access to a sufficient amount of light. Make sure the area you place this plant in is well lit.

The soil

The soil for cacti should be loose and slightly acidic (pH = 5–6). Air and moisture should easily pass through it. It is desirable to add 20% coarse sand to purchased soil to increase friability and breathability, and 10% charcoal to disinfect and prevent decay.

Watering

In summer, the cactus grows, so it requires more water: it usually needs to be watered once or twice a week. In winter, the cactus hibernates, so watering is stopped or rarely carried out, once every 2 or 3 weeks. In autumn and spring, it is enough to water every 10-14 days.

Also avoid watering with hard water - it alkalizes the soil, which weakens the plant and makes it more susceptible to disease. When watered with such water, a light brown coating appears at the base of the cactus, which can later turn into growths.

• Related news:
• houseplants
• planting
• plants care
• plants tips
• 14 July 2023

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