A cacti plant is a unique and attractive addition to your garden and home. They are popular because they are strong enough to survive in tough conditions and look impressive. Despite their toughness, cacti require special care, and it is easy to make mistakes when caring for them.
In this article, we will review some of the most common mistakes people make when caring for cacti and explain how to avoid them.
Excessive watering
It is well known that overwatering your cacti can cause these desert plants to die. As cacti are used to living in arid climates, they do not need as much water as other houseplants. If you want to keep your prickly friend healthy:
- Remember the rule "less is more" when it comes to watering.
- Check the soil moisture level before watering, and let the soil completely dry between waterings.
- Make sure you don't water your cacti on a schedule, and only water them when they feel dry.
- Don't drown your cactus with too much water, but do give it some love and care.
Mixing the soil incorrectly
When caring for cacti, people commonly need to use the right soil mix. You would be surprised how much cacti love well-draining soil, and if it becomes waterlogged, it could lead to root rot.
The best way to keep your prickly plants happy and healthy is to use specially designed potting mixes. Ensure the soil mix is rich in organic matter and has great drainage. It'll be a big help to your cacti.
Sunlight exposure
If you are a cactus lover and regularly buy cactus plants online, you know that these spiky beauties need plenty of sunlight to thrive. But did you know that too much direct sun can damage them? Yep, sunburnt spots can appear on their delicate skin, and nobody wants that.
So, how do you strike the perfect balance? Well, if you are keeping your cactus indoors, try to find a spot with filtered sunlight or partial shade. And if you have a south-facing window, don't worry - you can always supplement the natural light with artificial lights.
Excessive fertilization
Fertilizing cacti is one of the most effective ways to improve their growth, but too much fertilizer can also harm them. Cacti naturally grow in places with few nutrients, so too much fertilizer may prevent them from growing.
To avoid problems, use a special type of fertilizer beneficial for cacti, and fertilize only when they are in growth. Ensure you follow the fertilizer package instructions and do not use too much.
Potting too small
You should select the right pot size for your cactus to ensure that it is healthy. Cacti have shallow roots, so they need pots with good drainage. If the pot is too big, the soil can become too wet and harm the plant. On the other hand, if the pot is too small, the cactus may not grow well. Thus, it is best to use a pot with drainage holes that is slightly bigger than the roots.
An abrupt change in temperature
When it comes to sudden changes in temperature, especially during the tricky seasonal transitions, you should be aware of how they can adversely affect your cacti.
Make sure your prickly friends are kept out of direct sunlight during the summer and drafty during the winter. If you wish to keep them warm during the cold months, add some layers. Considering this before going for cactus purchase online will be of huge help.
Insufficient ventilation
If you love cacti, you want to keep them healthy and happy, right? Well, did you know proper ventilation is important to the health of your cactus? That's right. Make sure your cactus doesn't get too close to heating or cooling vents or enclosed spaces. This is because a lack of air circulation can cause moisture buildup and fungal infections. If you want to avoid that, ensure the cactus has enough space and is in a well-ventilated area.
Conclusion
If you are a cactus lover, you know how important it is to keep your succulent friends happy and healthy. Even though cacti are tough to handle, you still need to give them love and attention. So, make sure to keep these common mistakes in mind to give your cacti the best chance to thrive and look their best.
If you want to buy cactus for sale online, Secculent is your place. We offer a vast collection of cactus plants online in India. Also, did you know that cacti produce oxygen while you're sleeping? So, if you are looking for sustainable, natural decoration for your interior or bedroom, Secculent highly recommends using cacti.