How to Grow and Care for Cacki (Cactus)

While many search for the term “cacki,” the correct name for these popular houseplants is cactus for a single plant or cacti for multiple. These plants are a type of succulent, a category of plants known for their ability to store water in their stems and leaves. This water-storage capability is what makes them so resilient and adaptable to dry environments. Their most recognizable features are their fleshy stems and the spines that cover most varieties.

Fundamental Cactus Care

Light

Cacti require a significant amount of light to flourish. For most species, a south-facing or east-facing windowsill that receives at least four to six hours of direct sunlight is an ideal location indoors. You can tell if your cactus is not getting enough light if it begins to stretch towards the light source, a process known as etiolation. This results in a pale, thin, and weakened new growth that is irreversible.

Not all cacti can handle intense, direct sun all day. While many desert varieties are well-adapted to it, some can get scorched, which appears as yellow or brown spots on the plant’s skin. Younger, smaller cacti are more susceptible and may need some protection during the hottest part of the day.

Water

The most frequent mistake in cactus care is overwatering, which can quickly lead to root rot. Their roots are not suited to sitting in constantly moist soil. The best practice is the “soak and dry” method. This involves watering the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage hole, and then waiting for the soil to dry out completely before watering again.

During the spring and summer growing season, you might water your cactus as often as once a week, depending on the temperature and pot size. In the dormant winter months, watering should be reduced to once every four to six weeks. Always use tepid water, as cold water can shock the plant’s root system.

Soil

The right soil is foundational for a healthy cactus because it relates to water management. Cacti need a soil mix that provides excellent drainage to prevent water from lingering around the roots. A sandy or rocky mix that does not hold much moisture is recommended. Using standard potting soil is not advisable as it retains too much water.

Commercially available cactus and succulent mixes are formulated to provide the necessary drainage. Alternatively, you can create your own mix by amending a regular peat-free potting soil. A good recipe is two parts potting soil with one part perlite or horticultural grit to increase aeration.

Fertilizer

Cacti are not heavy feeders and are adapted to nutrient-poor soil in their natural environments. They do not require frequent fertilization, but they can benefit from it during their growing season. A small amount of fertilizer can replenish nutrients that are depleted over time, especially for plants in small pots.

When you do fertilize, use a fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents, which is low in nitrogen. Too much nitrogen can cause the cactus to have a sudden burst of weak, soft growth. The fertilizer should be diluted to half-strength and applied monthly during spring and summer. Do not fertilize during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Choosing Your Cactus

Cacti fall into two general categories: desert and forest. Desert cacti are what most people picture: sun-loving, spiny plants from arid regions. Forest cacti, such as the popular Christmas or Easter cactus, are native to jungle environments and grow on trees, preferring more humidity and filtered light.

For those new to cacti, starting with a variety known for being hardy and forgiving is a good approach. Good choices include:

• Golden Barrel Cactus (Echinocactus grusonii): A classic, recognizable by its round shape and dense, yellow spines.
• Star Cactus (Astrophytum asterias): A small, spineless variety that is perfect for smaller spaces.
• Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia): A popular genus with many easy-to-grow species, known for their flat, pad-like stems.
• Bunny Ears Cactus (Opuntia microdasys): A charming option, though its fine, hair-like spines, called glochids, can be irritating.

Common Cactus Problems and Solutions

A mushy, brown, or black base is almost always a sign of root rot caused by overwatering. To solve this, you must act quickly by removing the plant from its pot, cutting away all the rotted, dark tissue from the roots and base, and allowing the healthy part of the plant to dry and callous over for several days before repotting in fresh, dry cactus soil.

A shriveling or wrinkling appearance on the stem or pads of your cactus indicates underwatering. The solution is to give the plant a thorough watering, allowing the soil to become fully saturated. The cactus should plump back up within a day or two as its tissues rehydrate.

If you notice your cactus is growing tall and thin or leaning dramatically toward a window, it is suffering from etiolation. This condition is caused by insufficient light. While the stretched growth cannot be reversed, you can fix the problem for future growth by moving the plant to a much sunnier location to receive the bright light it needs.