![]() ![]() While they can survive extremely long periods of drought by storing water in their stems – which is how they survive dry, desert conditions – they grow and flower much better if given adequate supplies of water during their growing season. Many people think you don’t have to water desert cacti. Houseplant, indoor plant, summer patio plant. Suggested planting locations and garden types This will also help weigh down the pot and help prevent tall plants falling over. Some of the most popular to grow at home include Brachycalycium, Chamaecereus, Echinocereus, Echinopsis, Epiphyllum, Ferocactus, Gymnocalycium, Mammillaria, Mammillopsis, Notocactus, Rebutia and Trichocereus.ĭesert cacti must have a very well-drained compost, so either add extra grit to a John Innes Compost or, better still, use a compost specifically recommended for cacti and succulents.Īdd a topdressing of gravel or pebbles on top of the compost to produce a natural, finished look and to help prevent the base of the plant sitting in wet compost, which could lead to rotting. There are literally thousands of species and varieties of desert cactus. Keep them away from sources of direct heat, such as radiators. Make sure you bring them back indoors before the weather turns cold in early autumn.Ĭacti need a minimum spring and summer temperatures of 18☌ (65☏), but prefer cooler temperatures in autumn and winter of 7-13☌ (45-55☏) while they’re dormant. ![]() They are not cold or frost hardy, but can be moved outside to a warm, sunny patio in summer. They ideally need 4-6 hours of direct sunshine in summer. Indoors, desert cacti need a brightly lit position, preferably a south-facing or west-facing aspect or grown in a conservatory or heated greenhouse with good, all-round light. If you’re keen on cacti and want more information on them, visit the British Cactus & Succulent Society website. There are also the so-called ‘forest cacti’, which don’t live in deserts but in jungle woodland attached to trees, such as Easter and Christmas cactus ( Schlumbergera). There are numerous different species and types of desert cacti, including prickly pear cactus ( Opuntia) and Saguaro cactus ( Carnegiea). However, if cared for, watered and fed when growing, they are more likely to grow well, flower and produce a fabulous display of blooms. This is probably down to the fact that cacti are very forgiving, and can go for months if not years without watering and feeding and can suffer all manner of neglect and abuse. Many first-time gardeners – especially children – start their gardening and growing experiences with cacti, despite their spines. Cacti are among some of our most popular – and fascinating – houseplants.
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