Cacti are plants that enjoy wide recognition and are cherished as potted plants by many people.

However, there are a few simple tips for successfully caring for cacti.

Selecting the Right Pot

When choosing a pot for your cactus, opt for a smaller pot rather than a larger one. Generally, the pot should be just slightly larger than the plant itself. It's a good practice to place a couple of small tiles at the bottom of the pot to aid in drainage.

When planting your cactus, make sure not to bury it too deep; simply ensure it stands securely.

Repotting

Cactus plants have robust root systems that grow and change over time, releasing organic acids that can acidify the soil. To keep your cactus healthy, it's advisable to repot it 1-2 times a year, along with replenishing the soil.

The best times for repotting are during the plant's dormant periods, which occur either in early spring, around March, or in the fall, typically in October.

Providing Adequate Light

Cacti thrive on sunlight, and they can only produce blooms when they receive full sunlight. Therefore, it's essential to place your cactus in a location where it can be directly exposed to sunlight. Ensure that your cactus gets plenty of light throughout the day.

Fertilizing

Cacti require sufficient nutrients to grow vigorously. It is recommended to use water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks, mixed at a ratio of 1:1000. Alternatively, you can use fertilizers high in nitrogen and potassium. Remember to apply the fertilizer sparingly but consistently.

Watering

Cacti are renowned for their ability to withstand drought, so avoid overwatering them. During the spring and fall, water your cactus sparingly, only when the potting soil appears moist rather than dry.

While cacti can endure dry spells, they do need some water. It's a common mistake for people to forget to water their cacti, thinking they can go without. To ensure your cactus thrives, aim to water it approximately every 20 days.

If the potting soil dries out more quickly, consider shortening the watering intervals to 10 to 15 days.

Newly repotted or recently propagated cacti should not be watered immediately.

During the scorching summer months, when temperatures are high and dryness prevails, your cactus may enter a dormant phase.

During this period, excessive watering is counterproductive and can lead to root rot. Therefore, it's best to limit watering in the summer and maintain just enough moisture in the potting soil.

In contrast, as winter approaches and temperatures drop below 5°C (41°F), gradually reduce watering until the next spring.

During the dry fall season, you can water your cactus deeply once every 10 to 15 days to maintain its health.