Lighting

It’s best to identify the orientation of your windows before choosing a plant. Cacti prefer full sun, but a bright, well-lit window will do just fine. Remember to draw your curtains or blinds during the most intense hours of sunlight.

Artificial Lighting

If you don’t get enough natural sunlight, a “fluorescent compact” grow bulb placed about 6” to 8” (15–20 cm) from the plant can provide an extra boost of UV light for small to medium-sized plants.

Watering

Water in the morning to help prevent mold or mildew. Use room-temperature water that has been left to sit for a few hours — this allows chlorine and other chemicals to evaporate. The soil must dry out completely before watering again. A quick rule of thumb: Water with about ¼ of the pot’s volume — regardless of its size.

Watering Frequency

It varies depending on the amount of sunlight you get, the type of plant, the size of the pot, the season, and whether or not there are drainage holes at the bottom (for example, a small pot may need to be watered twice a week, while a large pot over 12″ only once a month). In winter, smaller pots still need to be watered, but sparingly. Never forget to water in the morning when it’s sunny. It always depends on the light you have and the size of the pot.

Choosing a Pot

For the type of cachepot, it is preferable to place a layer of gravel or shredded polystyrene foam at the bottom of the pot to ensure proper drainage; otherwise, you will need to adjust your watering accordingly. Plastic retains a bit more water, while terracotta provides some aeration.

Repotting

Repotting is best done at the start of the growing season, between March and July. However, if the roots have completely taken over the pot, you can repot at any time of year.

Fertilizing

From March to July, plants absorb fertilizer most efficiently. If you use a 20-20-20 fertilizer, alternate with 15-30-15 at half strength, and water once without fertilizer in between. If using liquid seaweed fertilizer, apply it every other watering.

Soil

The soil should be well-draining, light, and aerated to let water flow freely. A regular indoor potting mix works well — but never use garden soil or outdoor earth.