Cactus Rate High in House Plant Popularity

There has been a rapidly increasing interest in cactus family plants in recent years. They are particularly suitable for those who have experienced the pleasure of plants in their homes, but do not have time to care for the lush, tropical types properly. Although the cactus requires high light and good conditions to grow well and flower, it will survive much abuse and neglect. The barrel types are particularly durable. If not watered for months, they may become lean and stop growing, but still survive. If they are denied sufficient light, they may become pale, produce spindly growth or stop growing, but they still live a long time.

If they are given good care, they produce some of the most attractive flowers in the plant world. Those who choose cacti as house plants because they tend to neglect plants should select for those with decorative thorns and plant structures. While the flowers are beautiful, without good care it is unlikely that they will be produced. One of the most decorative cacti is the "old man" cactus which has long, soft spines resembling gray hair. The golden barrel, fire barrel and bird's nest cactus all have interesting thorn patterns.

Because there are many cacti, not all have common names. Unless you plan to become a collector, there is little chance that knowing names will help in their care, as most of the desert types require similar cultural conditions. During the late fall and winter, desert cacti are normally allowed to go dormant. Less moisture at this time is needed, and only a light watering should be given every few weeks. The soil should never be soaked in this dormant period.

During the remainder of the year, while the plants are growing actively, the soil should be well watered so the entire soil ball is moistened. It should then be allowed to dry until about the top 1 ¼ to ½ inch is thoroughly dry. The depth of dryness depends on pot size. Small pots need only be dry on the surface, while very large pots should dry down as much as one inch. Excellent drainage is important in growing cacti. If the mix contains coarse sand or perlite so it is well drained, the problems of overwatering are reduced.

A popular soil mixture for cacti is made from two parts coarse sand, two parts good garden soil, one part crushed flower pots or crushed soft bricks and one-half part well decomposed leaf mold or peat moss. If coarse sand is unavailable, use perlite. Fine builder's sand tends to pack more tightly than desirable. Most cacti require bright sunlight and should be placed in south-facing windows if possible. East or west windows where some direct sunlight is available will maintain the plants well.

After danger of frost is past, cacti may be placed outdoors in the spring. When they are first put outside they should be shaded during the hottest part of the day. However, after several weeks of adjustment, they may be placed in brighter locations. Those interested in trying to flower their cactus should remember that many of the desert cacti set flower buds at cool night temperatures from 45 to 55 degrees. Fahrenheit during late fall or the dormant period of midwinter.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cactus