growing cacti
\AJLJrX^
« . r t
S 0 "
How do I grow them?
Climate
Most cacti can be grown
outdoors in areas with low rainfall,
low humidity and no frost. If growing
indoors, ensure that the humidity is low.
Aspect
Position in full sun and shelter
from strong winds. However, some
species of cacti can have slightly different
lighting requirements, so always check
the label before planting. If planting
indoors, a brightly lit position, such as
a north-facing windowsill, will provide
the right amount of light.
Growing in the garden
Cacti need
free-draining soil to thrive. Most gardens
won’t have this, so to improve drainage,
build a raised bed and fill with a cactus
mix. Mulch the soil with a dressing of
small gravel or crushed stone.
Growing in pots
All cacti-growing
media must be free-draining, so use
coarse and crushed sandstone or fine
gravel and compost, or a mix of both.
You can also use specialised cactus mixes,
such as Amgrow Succulent ‘N’ Cacti or
Debco Cacti
tk
Succulent Potting Mix,
both of which are specially formulated
to suit the growing needs of your cacti.
Water
Cacti generally require generous
soaking during their growing season,
which is over the warmer months. Water
directly into the gravel every 1-2 weeks or
when the soil is dry. If your potted cactus
sits in a saucer, remove from the saucer
before watering and allow it to drain
for 20-30 seconds. Water early in the
morning or late afternoon. During the
colder months, cacti are dormant, so they
can survive on little or no water.
Fertiliser
Don’t feed young cacti until
they are established (after 3-4 years). Then,
in spring, scatter a low-nitrogen fertiliser.
For indoor cacti, use a slow-release
fertiliser, such as Yates Acticote Pots &
Planters, at half strength or a liquid feed
diluted to quarter strength, with routine
waterings in the growing season.
62
BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS, APRIL 2011 bhg.com.au
