Grow Cactus Indoors

Plant enthusiasts who feel they do not have the skills required to grow healthy house plants might want to learn how to grow cactus indoors. The desert succulents require minimal care and are hardy plants under the right conditions. Several hours of sunlight each day and well-draining soil are vital for cactus to thrive. A bonus for those wanting indoor plants that are easy to maintain is that there is minimal care involved once the basic needs of the succulents are met. In addition, there are several unique varieties available for growing indoors, which can beautify any windowsill without the work involved in caring for other types of houseplants.

Steps

  1. Select a growing dish or bowl for your indoor cactus that is somewhat shallow. Around 10 inches deep (25.4 cm.) is a good choice for a planter for cactus.
  2. Purchase items necessary for growing cactus.
  3. A potting soil that is formulated for cactus, gravel or sand and houseplant food with nitrogen and phosphorus are all needed for indoor cactus growing.
  4. Select your cactus.
  5. There are many varieties available that are suitable for indoor planting, including Prickly Pear, Rose Pincushion, Euphorbia and Rebutia.
    • Put the potting soil in the growing dish or bowl. Leave a little space at the top to allow room for the cactus.
  6. Place your cactus in the potting soil using gardening gloves. Gently push it just deep enough to allow it to stand up straight.
  7. Put the potting soil around the base of the cactus and pat it gently with your hands.
  8. Place a layer of gravel or sand on the top of the potting soil around the base of the cactus.
  9. Place the cactus in a warm, sunny location where it will get 4 to 6 hours of sunlight each day.
  10. Water the cactus as needed, about once a month.
  11. Fertilize the cactus once or twice a year using houseplant food with nitrogen and phosphorus.
  12. Dilute it to half the recommended amount before using, and apply it to the cactus in the spring or summer months.

Tips

  • A good indoor cactus growing tip is to lift the pot to see how heavy it is. If it feels lighter than usual, it is time to water your indoor cactus.
  • Always put your cactus in the sunniest spot in your home. A windowsill or table near a window are ideal locations.
  • When picking any container for growing plants, cactus or otherwise, there must be a drainage hole or even a little water will keep the soil saturated and rot the roots.
  • When learning how to grow cactus indoors, be careful not to prick your fingers. Always use gardening gloves when working with the succulents.

Warnings

  • Never over water your cactus or allow it to sit in water that does not drain from the soil. Because cacti do not need a lot of water, this can cause damage or even kill them.
  • If you live in a cold climate, do not leave your indoor cactus in windowsills when it is very cold outside. This can stunt the growth of your cactus and even kill it if the plant gets too cold.
  • Do not plant indoor cactus in deep pots. Shallow dishes or bowls will drain water more effectively. In addition, cacti do not produce deep root systems, so deep soil is not necessary.

Things You'll Need

  • Cactus
  • Shallow dish or bowl, made of ceramic or terracotta
  • Potting soil formulated for cactus
  • Gardening gloves
  • Gravel or sand
  • Houseplant food with nitrogen and phosphorus

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Sources and Citations

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