Plant Care

Instructions for planting bare root Cacti & Succulents

It is best to transplant your plants as soon as possible following arrival.  DO NOT water them for 7-10 days after transplanting.

Small Plants - For small plants, handle them with kitchen tongs, newspaper, or on old towel so as not to get "stuck' by the spines.  Plants should be placed in an empty pot that has drainage holes and a good porous soil should be used to fin in around the roots.  DO NOT plant too deep as that can lead to rot. Generally, each plant has a discoloration ring near it's base, use this as a reference mark regarding depth.  The soil may be pressed down lightly with your fingertips when you are finished potting the plant.  Aquarium gravel can be used as a decorative finish and also prohibits the dirt mixture from washing away with subsequent waterings.

Large Plants - Again follow general instructions for small plants, but take note of any materials supporting the plant during shipping.  If the plant is wrapped and supported by paper upon arrival, leave it that way until you are done transplanting so as to make use of the inherent stability which the paper or wrapping provides.

Tall Plants - Again follow general instructions for small plants, but take note of the "newspaper sling" around them for handling purposes.  Pleas make use of it for ease of handling when transplanting.

Caring for your Cacti & Succulents

It's easy to care for your cacti & other succulents - Their cultural needs are not complicated.  A general formula of care may be applied to the entire group.  As you live with your plants, you will learn those which thrive better with higher or lower light, more or les water, cooler or higher temperatures.  You need to be aware it is not possible to give standard instructions that will apply to all climatic regions.

Light - Give your cacti and succulents the brightest light available other than direct or full sun.  Signs of inadequate light are pale green coloring of the growing tips and elongation or "stretching" of the plant body.

Water - How often you water depends on the local climate and time of year.  During the growing season (spring, fall) water thoroughly when dry.  Standard plant nutrients (fertilizer) at half strength may be applied with each watering.  Decrease water during dormant periods (Usually December and January).

Soil - the most important factor is to provide a soil mix which drains readily.  A satisfactory combination for dry climates is one part sand, one part mulch, and two parts pumice (or perlite).  In more humid regions, less sand is recommended.

Transplanting - See reverse side for more information.  Taller plants that have traveled "bare root" may need to be staked upon repotting.

Care of Lithops ("Living Stones")

"Living Stones" are native to the Southern Hemisphere.  With this in mind, you will discover that their growing season is reversed and growth will occur during the winter in the Northern Hemisphere.  They may, however, switch over to a summer growing season in cultivation, so observe your plants to determine their growing season.  Plants entering dormancy will begin to form a papery outer skin.

Water/Fertilizer: Allow soil to dry completely between infrequent, light waterings (approximately every three weeks), during the summer dormant periods, (June though August).  Water may be given more frequently the rest of the year, however, ALWAYS allow soil to fully dry out between waterings.  The amount of time it takes for drying varies, depending on your humidity, light, temperatures, etc., you must use your judgment.  Fertilize monthly while growing, at half-strength.  No Fertilizer while dormant.  A general, all-purpose, household fertilizer work just fine.

Temperature/Light: These plants do best in average to warm temperatures (65-90 degrees F) and in bright light, possibly near a south or east facing window.

Soil: Must be well-draining; also be sure the pot used has drain holes.  For dry climates, use one part sand, one part forest or bark mulch and two parts pumice (or perlite).  In more humid climates, less sand is recommended.

Last modified: 05/13/04