How to Grow Cactus

Cactus plants are unique for their anatomical and physiological features. Most of them have fleshy stems and spines, but lack leaves. There are many types of cacti, which differ in the size and color. While some of the cactus plants sport leaves, some others lack spines. Usually, cactus plants denote those which have spines and succulent stems, but jungle cacti, which are natives to rainforests, lack these features. They are very different in their appearance and growing conditions. Hence, it is important to understand the type of plant, before buying it or growing it. It should be taken care of as per the requirement of the particular species. In spite of all the misconception, cactus remains a very popular plant for both indoor and outdoor use. But there are still people who think that it is very difficult to take care of these plants. The fact is that growing cacti is very easy, as they require less care and maintenance.

More about Growing Cactus

The popularity of cacti is attributed to their unique looks and low maintenance. These plants are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes, which can attract any person. If you are a plant lover, you too can grow cactus with the help of the following guidelines regarding how to grow cactus.

• The first step is the purchase of a cactus plant. Decide on the variety of the cactus plant you like and search for it in greenhouses and gardens. Make sure that you are buying a healthy plant of average size. If you go for very small ones, it may sometimes take years to grow to a standard size.
• Due care must be given while choosing a planting medium or soil for the cactus plants. Special potting soil, which is meant for these plants are available in the market. You can use that or make one by mixing coarse sand, peat and pearlite. Clay pots are the best option for cactus plants. The pot should be three to four times the size of the plant. Fill the pot with the planting medium, which should be dry.
• Refrain from watering for a week after the planting. During this time, the plant will be able to adjust to the new soil or planting medium. Avoidance of water during this time will prevent rotting of the roots. After one week, water the plant and repeat the watering weekly. During winters, watering should be restricted to once a month.
• Most of the cactus plants love sunlight, especially the ones with spines. They should be placed in direct sunlight. Others, which do not prefer sunlight, should be kept in shade. If the sun loving cactus are kept indoors, then place it near a heat lamp.
• Make it a point to check the plant for any unhealthy symptoms like drooping, or change of color. The problem can be over watering or deficiency of sunlight. Adjust these factors and see the difference.

Growing Jungle Cacti

There are two types of cacti, the conventional ones with succulent stems and spines, which are suited for desert-like habitats, and the ones which are natives to the rainforests. Some plants of the latter category lack the features of conventional cacti and may look different. These cacti need a different medium to grow. A good potting mixture for such plants can be made by mixing 25% of orchid bark and same quantities of potting soil and peat with 20% pearlite and 5% coarse gravel. Water these plants once a week, or in very hot conditions, twice. These plants need the sun in the mornings and shade in the afternoons. Take care that this plant is not in full shade, full sun, morning shade or full afternoon sun. These conditions can prove detrimental to the health of the plant. There are some jungle cacti, which prefer full sun for their growth. So if you are selecting a jungle cacti, it will be better to study the growth conditions of the plant and then proceed.

Cactus Plant Care Tips

Even though this plant is touted as low maintenance plants, there is some information on cactus plants that can help you take care of your plant properly. The following are some tips regarding growing cactus plants.

• Adequate sunlight is very necessary for cactus plants. Keep indoor cacti on windowsills or other places, where they get sufficient sunlight.
• The pots in which they are planted should have good drainage, as water retention can cause rotting of the roots.
• Cactus plants that grow in a vertical direction need pots with a diameter of about half the length of the plant. If the plant has a horizontal growth, the diameter of the pot should be two inches more than the width of the plant.
• The golden rule regarding growing cactus is that you should not over water this plant. Water retention is fatal for the plant, as they may die due to rotting. Water the plant if the planting medium is absolutely dry.

Now you are ready to grow cactus plants. Start with the type you like the most and you will be surprised at how easy it is to grow cactus plants. You can gradually increase the number and variety of such plants in your house and add to the decor.