How to grow Cacti plants at home. Cacti have exacting requirements in terms of the compost in which they grow. It’s not too difficult. Have a read and start growing your own Cacti at home. In their natural habitat the soil they grow in has a high proportion of sand and is very well drained.
When re-potting cacti and succulents choose specific compost, such as Westland Cacti & Succulent Potting Mix, which contains added horticultural sand and grit for excellent drainage and organic matter as a source of vital plant nutrients.
How to water and feed a cacti
Water your cacti about once a month. The compost should not be allowed to dry out completely and kept slightly moist.
Feed your cacti once a season with a specialist feed, such as Westland Cacti & Succulent Feed.
How to plant a cactus
- Choose a suitable planter for your cactus. It needs to be slightly larger than the container your plant is growing in.
- Add a layer of Hydroleca to the base of the planter to improve drainage.
- Add a layer of Westland Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix on top of the grit, making sure you have left enough room for the root ball.
- Carefully remove the cactus from its pot. If it’s very spiny, then wear thick gloves.
- Check the roots for damage and disease and carefully remove any signs of decay.
- Place the root ball into the planter so that the roots rest on top of the Westland Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix
- The cactus should be about the same level in the compost as it was in its original container. Don’t plant any deeper or leave more exposed.
- Fill in around the sides with more compost, packing down between the planter and the root ball firmly.
- Water gently to settle the new compost, but don’t over water
