How to Love and Care for Your Succulent or Cacti Plants
- Angelique Alatraca
- Dec 8, 2025
- 4 min read
Succulents and cacti are absolutely taking the plant world by storm, enchanting both beginner gardeners and experienced plant enthusiasts! With their breathtaking designs and easy-care nature, these plants are perfect for bringing a touch of greenery to any space—whether it’s your home or office. Whether you already have some of these extraordinary plants or you're eager to expand your collection, this guide is your go-to resource for caring for them with ease!
Understanding Your Plants
To give your succulents and cacti the best care, you need to grasp what makes them special. Both types thrive in dry environments and have unique adaptations to hold water. For instance, succulents store water in their leaves or stems, while cacti have a thick, waxy outer layer that minimizes moisture loss.
For example, the Aloe Vera can store up to 95% water in its leaves, allowing it to survive long periods without rain. Awareness of these unique characteristics will help you foster an ideal environment for your green companions.
Choosing the Right Pot
Selecting the right pot is a vital first step in caring for your succulent or cactus. Drainage is essential! Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation that can lead to root rot. Terracotta pots are popular because they allow moisture to evaporate more readily.
If you prefer something decorative, that's fine! Just ensure it has drainage holes or use it as a cachepot, placing a smaller pot inside that has drainage. This method allows you to enjoy aesthetics without compromising your plant's health.
The decorative pots at our Union Station spot are all about style and don't have drainage holes. They're perfect for more than just plants—they're great for decoration, too. If you're planning to put a plant in one, it's best to keep the plant in its original nursery pot since those have drainage holes. Just let the water drain out completely before popping it back into the decorative pot.
Soil Matters
Next, consider the soil. Regular potting soil tends to hold too much moisture. Use a well-draining mix tailored for succulents and cacti. You can often find pre-mixed soil at garden centers. Alternatively, create your own by blending regular potting soil with sand, perlite, or pumice in a 2:1 ratio.
This soil composition promotes healthy moisture retention and drainage. Remember, the right soil mixture can significantly affect how well your plants thrive.
Watering Wisely
Overwatering is a common error. Succulents and cacti prefer their soil to dry out completely between waterings. A practical guideline: water thoroughly, then wait until the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry before watering again.
During the growing season (spring and summer), you may water every 1-2 weeks. Conversely, in the dormant months (fall and winter), watering can be minimized to once a month or less. For instance, if your climate is particularly dry, you may need to adjust the frequency slightly.
Light Requirements
Light plays a crucial role in the health of your succulents and cacti. Most thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, so a south or west-facing window is usually optimal. However, be cautious of extended direct sunlight exposure, as it can damage the leaves.
If you notice your plant reaching towards the light or becoming leggy, it might need more light. On the other hand, leaves that turn brown or appear translucent could signal too much direct sunlight.
Choosing Succulents and Cacti for Low Light
When stuck in an office or living in a place with limited sunlight, selecting specific succulents or cacti is advisable. Solid succulent choices include Haworthia and the ZZ plant, while Christmas and Mistletoe cacti are excellent options for cacti. For those interested in a unique succulent or cactus that may struggle in low light, consider acquiring a special grow light from Amazon or your local garden center.
Our Union Station store may not have specific plants in stock, so please inquire with the florist to see if they are available. If you wish to purchase them from us, contact us, and we'll verify if we can obtain them for you.
Fertilizing Your Plants
While succulents and cacti do not need many nutrients, adding a little fertilizer can stimulate growth. During the growing season, feed them with a diluted, balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Look for formulas specifically designed for succulents, as they are optimized for these unique plants.
In the dormant season, it's best to skip fertilization altogether since plants are not actively growing.
Pruning and Propagation
As succulents and cacti grow, you may notice some old leaves becoming shrivelled or discoloured. It's natural for older leaves to die off, but pruning away the dead material helps maintain your plant’s appearance. For example, after a few months, the lower leaves on a Jade Plant may start to yellow. Simply remove them to keep the plant looking its best.
If you're interested in propagation, many species easily grow from cuttings. For instance, to propagate Echeveria, let the cut end dry for a few days before planting it in soil. With patience and care, new plants will soon sprout.
Common Pests and Problems
Even resilient plants face challenges. Common pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites can be troublesome. If you spot these pests, you can typically get rid of them using a gentle water spray or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Additionally, keep an eye out for overwatering signs, such as yellowing leaves or mushy stems. If you notice these, you might need to repot your plant using fresh soil and trim away affected roots.
Seasonal Care Tips
As seasons change, so do care requirements. In summer, you may need to increase watering due to evaporation rates. In winter, decrease watering and protect plants from cold drafts.
For regions with harsh winters, consider bringing outdoor succulents inside. Temperatures below 30°F can be harmful, so protect your plants by relocating them to a more hospitable environment.
Final Thoughts on Succulent and Cacti Care
Caring for succulents and cacti can be incredibly rewarding, as they bring a touch of nature to your space. By understanding their specific needs and creating a nurturing setting, you can help ensure your plants thrive.
Remember that every plant has its individual needs. Take time to observe your succulents and cacti, adjusting care as necessary. With a blend of attention and passion, you'll soon be a proud plant parent enjoying the beauty of these remarkable plants.
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