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Cactus Care

Cacti are some of the most care-free houseplants. Found in desert climates in the wild, they can survive considerable drought–often going weeks between waterings.

How to care for your Cactus

Use these instructions to care for a Cactus. This guide will tell you how to water a Cactus; its light, temperature, humidity preferences and any additional care it might need to help it grow.

Bishop's Cap Cactus

LIGHT

Your Bishop’s Cap Cactus needs as much bright light to full sunlight as it can possibly get.

WATER

Water only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Bishop’s Cap Cactus requires no additional humidity, and will thrive in dry environments.

TEMPERATURE

Your Bishop’s Cap Cactus prefers temperatures between 55-90 degrees. Keep away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp-never apply to dry soil. Your Bishop’s Cap Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize your cactus in the fall or winter months when growth naturally slows.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children.

ADDITIONAL CARE

Some plants are more green in color, and some have a white flecked coating- this is a natural protective response from the cacti! It may fleck off naturally, but no need to take it off yourself.

Bullwinkle Cactus

LIGHT

Your Bullwinkle Cactus needs as much bright light to full sunlight as it can possibly get.

WATER

Water only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Bullwinkle Cactus requires no additional humidity and thrives in dry environments.

TEMPERATURE

Keep the room temperature between 55-90 degrees. Keep your Bullwinkle Cactus away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp-never apply to dry soil. Your Bullwinkle Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to half strength.

ADDITIONAL CARE

When handling your Bullwinkle cactus, use gloves, gentle tongs, or wrap the plant in cloth so the spines cannot puncture your skin.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children, but watch out for the spines!

Dwarf Chin Cactus

LIGHT

Your Cactus prefers bright light to full sun.

WATER

Water only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Dwarf Chin Cactus requires no additional humidity and will thrive in dry environments.

TEMPERATURE

Your Dwarf Chin Cactus prefers temperatures between 55-90 degrees. Keep away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp—never apply to dry soil. Your Dwarf Chin Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose liquid plant food diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize your cactus in the fall or winter months when growth naturally slows.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children. However, beware of the spines and thorns!

ADDITIONAL CARE

When handling your Dwarf Chin Cactus, it is suggested to use gloves or wrap the plant in a fabric that the spines cannot puncture.

Easter Lily Cactus

LIGHT

Your cactus needs bright direct light. This means a spot that gets 6 or more hours of direct sun per day.

WATER

Water your cactus when the volume of soil is 100% dry. Water thoroughly until it flows out of the drainage hole. Discard excess water to discourage root rot.

HUMIDITY

Cacti do well in dry to average household humidity and prefer dry air.

TEMPERATURE

Your cactus prefers temperatures between 60-90°F.

FOOD

Fertilize once in the spring and summer with a cactus or succulent fertilizer.

TOXICITY

This plant is non-toxic to humans and pets if ingested but watch for thorns.

ADDITIONAL CARE

Be sure to wear gloves when handling or repotting as they have sharp spines. To encourage your cacti to bloom, make sure your plants are getting strong unobstructed direct light from a southern or western window. You can also place them outdoors in direct sun as long as temperatures allow.

Emerald Ripple Cactus

LIGHT

Your Emerald Ripple Cactus needs as much bright light to full sunlight as it can possibly get. Make sure to acclimate if moving outside into the direct sunlight. In the winter, if possible, move it to a cooler spot with less light so it can go dormant and rest.

WATER

Water only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

This plant requires no additional humidity.

TEMPERATURE

The Emerald Ripple Cactus prefers temperatures between 60-80 degrees.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp–never apply to dry soil. The Emerald Ripple Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to ½ strength. Do not fertilize in the fall or winter when plant growth naturally slows.

TOXICITY

Moderately toxic to pets and humans. Typically, ingestion will cause mouth and stomach irritation and possible vomiting.

ADDITIONAL CARE

During the hottest summer months, your Emerald Ripple will appreciate the extra sunlight it gets if you are able to put it outside on a terrace.

Fairy Castle Cactus

LIGHT

Your Fairy Castle Cactus needs as much sunlight or full sun as it can possibly get through the early spring and into late Fall. Turn it frequently so a new section faces the light, or it will begin to lean.

WATER

Water your Fairy Castle Cactus deeply and allow it to dry completely between waterings in the spring and summer. Always water near the base of the plant and try to keep the column of the plant dry. Your Fairy Castle Cactus will not tolerate soggy soil. Make sure to empty the saucer of all standing water after each watering. During the late fall and winter, you can go up to 4 weeks without watering your cactus.

HUMIDITY

This plant requires no additional humidity.

TEMPERATURE

Your Fairy Castle Cactus prefers temperatures between 60-80 degrees.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp–never apply to dry soil. The Fairy Castle Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to half the recommended strength. Do not fertilize in the fall or winter when plant growth naturally slows.

TOXICITY

Your Cactus is moderately toxic to pets and humans. Typically, ingestion will cause mouth and stomach irritation and possible vomiting. Additionally, be sure to wear gloves when handling your cactus- the spines can be sharp!

ADDITIONAL CARE

During the summer months, your Fairy Castle Cactus will appreciate the extra sunlight it will get if you are able to place it outside in a sunny spot. Move it from inside to full sun over the course of 1-2 weeks to acclimate your cactus to the extra sunshine. 

Fishbone Cactus

LIGHT

Your Fishbone Cactus prefers bright indirect light. It can also tolerate a couple of hours of direct sunlight but should not be placed in full sun. It also will not do well in low light situations.

WATER

Allow the soil to dry completely between watering, then water thoroughly until you see it flow from the bottom into the saucer. Always empty the saucer of any standing water.

HUMIDITY

Your Fishbone Cactus will benefit from additional humidity from misting or the use of a humidifier.

TEMPERATURE

Your Fishbone Cactus will thrive in temperatures between 55-90 degrees. Keep away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures.

FOOD

Before applying any fertilizer, make sure the soil is already damp–never apply to dry soil. Your Fishbone Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to half the recommended strength.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children.

ADDITIONAL CARE

Use gloves when handling and repotting your cactus, as the leaves have tiny hair-like structures that can cause discomfort and irritation when they come in contact with your skin.

Golden Barrel Cactus

LIGHT

Your Golden Barrel Cactus needs as much bright light to full sunlight as it can possibly get.

WATER

Water only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Golden Barrel Cactus requires no additional humidity, and will thrive in dry environments.

TEMPERATURE

Your Golden Barrel Cactus prefers temperatures between 55-90 degrees. Keep away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures. 

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp-never apply to dry soil. Your Golden Barrel Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize your cactus in the fall or winter months when growth naturally slows.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children.  However, beware of the spines and thorns!

ADDITIONAL CARE

When handling your Golden Barrel Cactus, it is suggested to use gloves or wrap the plant in a fabric that the spines cannot puncture.

Hedge cactus

LIGHT

Your Hedge Cactus needs as much sunlight or full sun as it can possibly get. Turn it frequently so a new section faces the light, or it will begin to lean. Make sure to acclimate if moving outside into the direct sunlight.

WATER

Water your Hedge Cactus deeply and allow it to dry completely between waterings in the spring and summertime. Always water near the base of the plant and try to keep the column of the plant dry. They will not tolerate wet, soggy soil or roots. Make sure to empty the saucer of all standing water. During the late fall and winter, you can go up to 4 weeks without watering your cactus.

HUMIDITY

This plant requires no additional humidity.

TEMPERATURE

The Hedge Cactus prefers temperatures between 60-80 degrees.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp–never apply to dry soil. Your Hedge Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to ½ strength. Do not fertilize in the fall or winter when plant growth naturally slows.

ADDITIONAL CARE

During the hottest summer months, your Hedge Cactus will appreciate the extra sunlight it gets if you are able to put it outside on a terrace.

TOXICITY

Hedge Cactus is non-toxic, but be sure to keep pets away and wear gloves when handling your cactus- the spines can be sharp!

Lady Finger Cactus

LIGHT

Your Lady Finger Cactus needs as much bright light to full sunlight as it can possibly get.

WATER

Water your cactus only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Lady Finger Cactus requires no additional humidity, and will thrive in dry environments.

TEMPERATURE

Your Lady Finger Cactus prefers temperatures between 55-90°F. Keep away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures.

FOOD

Feed once in the spring and once in the summer with a fertilizer formulated for cacti. Do not fertilize in the fall or winter months when growth naturally slows. Always fertilize on moist soil, never dry, as it can burn the roots.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children. However, beware of the spines and thorns!

ADDITIONAL CARE

When handling your Lady Finger Cactus, it is suggested to use gloves or wrap the plant in a fabric that the spines cannot puncture.

Lantana Cactus

LIGHT

Your Lantana Cactus needs as much bright light to full sunlight as it can possibly get.

WATER

Water only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Lantana Cactus requires no additional humidity and will thrive in dry environments.

TEMPERATURE

Your Lantana Cactus prefers temperatures between 55-90 degrees. Keep away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp—never apply to dry soil. Your Lantana Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose liquid plant food diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize your cactus in the fall or winter months when growth naturally slows.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children. However, beware of the spines and thorns!

ADDITIONAL CARE

When handling your Lantana Cactus, it is suggested to use gloves or wrap the plant in a fabric that the spines cannot puncture.

Moon Cactus

LIGHT

The Moon Cactus needs bright direct light. This means a spot that gets 6 or more hours of direct sun per day, like an unobstructed southern or western window.

WATER

Water your cactus when the soil volume is 100% dry. Water thoroughly until it flows out of the drainage hole. Discard excess water to discourage root rot.

HUMIDITY

Cacti do well in dry to average household humidity.

TEMPERATURE

Your cactus prefers temperatures between 60-90°F.

FOOD

Fertilize once in the spring and once in the summer with a cactus or succulent fertilizer.

TOXICITY

The Moon Cactus is considered pet friendly, but watch out for spikes.

ADDITIONAL CARE

Be sure to wear gloves when handling as the Moon Cactus has barbed bristles called glochids that can irritate the skin.

Old Lady Cactus

LIGHT

Your Old Lady Cactus needs as much bright light to full sunlight as it can possibly get.

WATER

Water only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Old Lady Cactus requires no additional humidity, and will thrive in dry environments.

TEMPERATURE

Your Old Lady Cactus prefers temperatures between 55-90 degrees. Keep away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp-never apply to dry soil. Your Old Lady Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize your cactus in the fall or winter months when growth naturally slows.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children. However, beware of the spines and thorns!

ADDITIONAL CARE

When handling your Old Lady Cactus, it is suggested to use gloves or wrap the plant in a fabric that the spines cannot puncture.

Old Man Cactus

LIGHT

Your cactus needs bright direct light. This means a spot that gets 6 or more hours of direct sun per day.

WATER

Water your cactus when the volume of soil is 100% dry. Water thoroughly until it flows out of the drainage hole. Discard excess water to discourage root rot.

HUMIDITY

Cacti do well in dry to average household humidity and prefer dry air.

TEMPERATURE

Your cactus prefers temperatures between 60-90°F.

FOOD

Fertilize once in the spring and summer with a cactus or succulent fertilizer.

TOXICITY

This plant is non-toxic to humans and pets if ingested but watch for thorns.

ADDITIONAL CARE

Be sure to wear gloves when handling or repotting as they have sharp spines. To encourage your cacti to bloom, make sure your plants are getting strong unobstructed direct light from a southern or western window. You can also place them outdoors in direct sun as long as temperatures allow.

Peanut Cactus

LIGHT

Your Peanut Cactus needs as much bright light to full sunlight as it can possibly get.

WATER

Water your cactus only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Peanut Cactus requires no additional humidity and will thrive in dry environments.

TEMPERATURE

Your cactus prefers temperatures between 55-90°F. Keep away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures.

FOOD

Feed once in the spring and once in the summer with a fertilizer formulated for cacti. Do not fertilize in the fall or winter months when growth naturally slows. Always fertilize on moist soil, never dry, as it can burn the roots.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children. However, beware of the spines and thorns!

ADDITIONAL CARE

Though the spines on this cactus are soft, it is still not recommended to touch them because they can still puncture the skin. When handling your cactus, it is suggested to use gloves or wrap the plant in a thick cloth.

Pincushion Cactus

LIGHT

Your cactus needs bright direct light. This means a spot that gets 6 or more hours of direct sun per day.

WATER

Water your cactus when the volume of soil is 100% dry. Water thoroughly until it flows out of the drainage hole. Discard excess water to discourage root rot.

HUMIDITY

Cacti do well in dry to average household humidity and prefer dry air.

TEMPERATURE

Your cactus prefers temperatures between 60-90°F.

FOOD

Fertilize once in the spring and summer with a cactus or succulent fertilizer.

TOXICITY

This plant is non-toxic to humans and pets if ingested but watch for thorns.

ADDITIONAL CARE

Be sure to wear gloves when handling or repotting as they have sharp spines. To encourage your cacti to bloom, make sure your plants are getting strong unobstructed direct light from a southern or western window. You can also place them outdoors in direct sun as long as temperatures allow.

Prickly Pear Cactus

LIGHT

Your Prickly Pear Cactus prefers bright light to full sun.

WATER

Water only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Prickly Pear requires no additional humidity.

TEMPERATURE

Keep the room temperature between 55-90 degrees. Keep the Prickly Pear away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures. In the wintertime, try to place your Prickly Pear in a cooler setting with plenty of bright indirect sunlight.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp-never apply to dry soil. Your Prickly Pear Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize your Prickly Pear in the fall or winter when plant growth naturally slows.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children.  However, beware of the spines and thorns!

ADDITIONAL CARE

When handling a Prickly Pear, it is suggested to use gloves or wrap the plant in something that the spines cannot puncture the skin.

Red Balloon Barrel Cactus

LIGHT

Your Red Balloon Cactus needs as much bright light to full sunlight as it can possibly get.

WATER

Water only when the soil is completely dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Red Balloon Barrel Cactus requires no additional humidity, and will thrive in dry environments.

TEMPERATURE

Your Red Balloon Barrel Cactus prefers temperatures between 55-90 degrees. Keep away from heating or cooling vents, fans, heaters, and air conditioning units that cause fluctuating temperatures.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp-never apply to dry soil. Your Red Balloon Barrel Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize your cactus in the fall or winter months when growth naturally slows.

TOXICITY

Non-toxic to pets and children. However, beware of the spines and thorns!

ADDITIONAL CARE

When handling your Red Balloon Barrel Cactus, it is suggested to use gloves or wrap the plant in a fabric that the spines cannot puncture.

Torch Cactus

LIGHT

Your Torch Cactus needs as much sunlight or full sun as it can possibly get. Turn it frequently so a new section faces the light, or it will begin to lean. Make sure to acclimate if moving outside into the direct sunlight.

WATER

Water your Torch Cactus deeply and allow it to dry completely between waterings in the spring and summertime. Always water near the base of the plant and try to keep the column of the plant dry. They will not tolerate wet, soggy soil or roots. Make sure to empty the saucer of all standing water. During the late fall and winter, you can go up to 4 weeks without watering your cactus.

HUMIDITY

This plant requires no additional humidity.

TEMPERATURE

Your Torch Cactus prefers temperatures between 60-80 degrees.

FOOD

Before applying any type of plant food, make sure the soil is already damp-never apply to dry soil. Your Candelabra Cactus requires fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Apply an all-purpose, liquid plant food diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize your Prickly Pear in the fall or winter when plant growth naturally slows.

TOXICITY

Moderately toxic to pets and humans. Typically, ingestion will cause mouth and stomach irritation and possible vomiting.

ADDITIONAL CARE

During the hottest, summer months, your Torch Cactus will appreciate the extra sunlight it gets if you are able to put it outside on a terrace.

Zygo Cactus

LIGHT

Your Zygo Cactus prefers bright indirect light and will not do well in low light. Extended periods of direct sunlight may scorch the foliage.

WATER

Water when 25-50% of the soil volume is dry. Water until liquid flowers through the drainage hole and discard any water that accumulates in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

Your Zygo Cactus does best in above-average household humidity. Use a pebble tray, group with other plants, or place a humidifier nearby.

TEMPERATURE

Your Zygo Cactus prefers temperatures between 55-90°F.

FOOD

Feed once in the spring and once in the summer with a cactus or succulent fertilizer. Never apply fertilizer to dry soil.

TOXICITY

This plant is considered non-toxic and pet-friendly.

ADDITIONAL CARE

Cut off spent blooms using sharp clean shears so your plant can redirect its energy toward new growth. Once flowering has finished in the winter, place your plant in a cool, dim area like a basement. Water infrequently during its dormancy. In the spring, move your plant back to a warm bright area, water it, and continue to care for the plant as normal once it has perked back up.

Grow Beyond Expectations

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What's a Cactus?

Botanical Classification: Cactaceae (family)

About

Cacti are some of the most care-free houseplants. Found in desert climates in the wild, they can survive considerable drought–often going weeks between waterings.

Cacti occur in many shapes and sizes, but a common characteristic nearly all of them share are sharp spines covering the body of the plant. The root system of a cactus is shallow and fine, making them sensitive to repotting and somewhat fragile. Though they can go weeks without water, cacti need plenty of sunshine to truly thrive.

Fun Fact

Some plants you think are cacti are actually succulents!

Pictured Left: Prickly Pear Cactus

Prickly Pear Cactus

A playful cactus with pads shaped like a beavertail, the Prickly Pear Cactus is a low-maintenance plant with a no-fuss care routine with infrequent watering and fertilizing.
very easy, perfect for beginners, Bright indirect to bright light
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