The Ultimate Guide to Cacti & Succulent Care: Easy Tips for Beginners

Cacti and succulents are some of the easiest plants to care for, making them perfect for beginners. They don’t need much water, love the sun, and can grow in almost any home or garden. But to keep them happy and healthy, you’ll need to follow a few simple care tips. Let’s dive in!

1. Choose the Right Pot, Soil, and Landscape Placement

Cacti and succulents need well-draining soil to prevent root rot, whether grown in pots or in the landscape. Here’s what to do:

For Potted Plants:

• Use a pot with a drainage hole to allow excess water to escape.

• Pick cactus or succulent soil or make your own by mixing 50% sand, 25% pumice, and 25% potting soil.

• Avoid pots that hold too much moisture, like glass or plastic with no drainage.

For Landscaping:

• Choose a well-draining location with sandy or rocky soil.

• If needed, amend soil with 60% sand, 20% pumice, and 20% native soil to improve drainage.

• Avoid planting in areas where water collects, such as low spots in the yard.

• Use gravel or small rocks as top dressing to prevent soil erosion and keep moisture levels stable.

2. Water When the Soil is Dry

Watering cacti and succulents is simple once you understand their needs. Instead of following a strict schedule, water only when the soil is completely dry.

• Typically, this means about once every two weeks in summer and once a month in winter, but always check the soil first.

• Use the “soak and dry” method – water until it drains from the bottom, then wait until the soil is dry before watering again.

3. Give Them Enough Sunlight

Cacti and succulents love the sun, but too much direct sunlight can burn them.

• Place them in a bright, sunny spot (like a windowsill facing south or west).

• Outdoor plants need at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.

• If your succulent looks stretched out or pale, it needs more light.

4. Keep Them at the Right Temperature

Most succulents and cacti prefer warm temperatures, but they can survive in cooler conditions too.

• Keep indoor plants at 65-80°F (18-27°C).

• Protect them from frost and freezing temperatures.

• If growing outdoors, bring them inside when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

5. Fertilize for Growth

Even though succulents don’t need much food, a little fertilizer can help them grow stronger.

• Use a cactus or succulent fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

• Avoid over-fertilizing – too much can burn the roots.

6. Repot When Needed

Your cactus or succulent may outgrow its pot. Here’s how to know when to repot:

• If roots grow out of the drainage hole, it’s time for a bigger pot.

• Repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil.

• Always repot in dry soil to prevent root rot.

7. Watch for Common Problems

Even easy-care plants can have issues. Here’s how to fix them:

• Wrinkled leaves? Your succulent needs water.

• Mushy stems or black spots? You’re overwatering.

• Brown, crispy spots? Too much direct sun.

• Pale, stretched-out growth? Not enough light.

Final Thoughts

Each type of cactus and succulent may require different levels of care, so consider this guide as a solid foundation. If you need specific advice for your plant, feel free to reach out to us directly—we’re happy to help!

Caring for cacti and succulents is simple when you follow these basic steps. The key is good drainage, proper watering, and enough sunlight. With just a little attention, your plants will thrive and bring beauty to your space for years to come!

Got any questions about cactus or succulent care? Drop a comment below – we’re happy to help!