You may think that cacti are a relatively straightforward plant that is easy to understand and learn about. However, just like many things in life, there is much more to know about cactus plants than you may realise.
To help you discover the beauty of cacti and make sure that you know all that there is to know. We have put together some of the critical things that you didn’t know about indoor cactus plants.
Look After Your Cactus
Whilst cactus plants are pretty hardy additions to your home, the important thing to remember is that you can kill them. That said, it is not easy to do. The most common way you can them is by over-watering them or planting them in a pot with poor drainage. It can also be harmful if you use the wrong potting medium; you want to avoid any that hold water too well, such as potting compost. Instead, you want to try out specialist cactus soil instead that contains an aerated medium like; coarse sand, perlite, or vermiculite.
Cactus Plants Flower
A common misconception about cacti is that they stay green and flowerless. However, this is not true. With the proper care and following the natural life cycle, you will find that your cactus flowers. Cacti plants that flower can be pretty great to look at.
Ideal Beginner Plants
Of course, anyone can enjoy owning a cactus; however, there are plenty of benefits for looking after them if you are a beginner. Whilst they take minimal care to keep alive, they still need it, which means that you can pick a cactus plant up if you are a complete plant novice. A good one to look out for is a “bunny ear cactus” as they not only look great but are also easy to look after too.
Not All Cacti are Prickly
Another thing that everyone seems to think about cacti because they are prickly and, therefore, can hurt you if you touch them. Of course, many cactus plants are prickly and spiky, which means that you need to handle them carefully. However, some plants do not have bristles. This means that they may be a better choice for you if you have kids in the house and are worried that you will end up injuring them. You want to look out for what is known as forest cacti rather than desert cacti.
They are Not All Succulents
Find it hard to distinguish between a cactus and a succulent? You are not alone. The important way to think about it is that every cactus is a succulent, but not every succulent is a cactus. Succulents cover a wide range of plants that, like cactus plants, can withstand periods of drought by storing the moisture that they take in within their stems or their trunks.
When you know as much as possible about cacti, you can decide whether or not they are the right choice for your indoor plants and whether they will be something that can add to your space and be easy enough to look after.