Phoenix Cactus Care – How to Take Care of Cactus Plants

Phoenix Cactus Care – How to Take Care of Cactus Plants

cuerensisHome plant designs in Phoenix face challenges from a dry climate. The need to ensure soil moisture is critical for plant and tree care throughout the year. This particularly applies to plants that do not store enough water in leaves or stems to cope with heat stress.

Many Phoenix residents turn to cactus and succulent plants as a solution. With proper attention, cacti are able to store enough water in fleshly areas to thrive in the desert. Despite this benefit, proper cactus care is still needed for cacti to thrive.

So, what are best practices to consider when caring for your cactus plants?

Here are some ideas to consider:

Cactus Care still requires Water:

Although your cactus is equipped to withstand hot and dry weather, water is needed to help cacti thrive. You should follow a regular watering schedule, particularly for a new cactus.

2800.00 SaguaroWhen and How Much to Water:

Early spring to late autumn is the common growth period for cactus plants. During this stretch, your new cactus should be watered at least once a week. However, this can vary depending on the location and unique conditions your cactus faces.

You should check soil moisture on a weekly basis to guard against water loss. Fertilizing cacti during growing season is also important to long term plant health. Diluting a balanced fertilizer of phosphorous, nitrogen and potassium may be considered.

Winter Cactus Care in Phoenix:

When chilly winter mornings and short days arrive, watering frequency may be decreased. You should consider how much sunlight all plants receive during this period. If your cactus is indoors with minimal light exposure, consider decreasing the water frequency.

Signs of wilting are indications of water loss. A local plant nursery can advise on ways to improve cactus health if wilted signs appear.

Water your cactus plants until water is coming out of the pot’s drainage holes.

General Cactus Care Tips:

Light: Whether natural or artificial light, excess exposure can cause cacti to appear bleached or yellow.  Managing sunlight is essential to most aspects of plant care. You should minimize drastic changes to light and aim to find a stable location. As the seasons change, you can make gradual adjustments to where plants are located to optimize sunlight benefits.

Potting:

Choosing the best plant pots is vital to cactus care. Since cacti have different species, working with a nursery professional helps make the best choices.

How close a plant’s roots grow to the soil surface can affect potting decisions.  Pots with depth are best suited for deeper rooting cactus species. Conversely, roots near the surface may benefit from a shallow pot with a wide base.

Your plant design is also enhanced by selecting pots that improve the appeal of living spaces and cactus health.

Plant Pest Control:

Plant health depends on many factors, including pest infestations. A wilting or unhealthy looking plant may be suffering from mealy bugs or spider mites. Since most plant pests are microscopic, diagnosis can be complicated.

If your cactus appears sickly with no visible pests, consider unpotting the plant and washing off the soil. You can then soak the roots in a recommended insecticide before repotting.

Summary:

Cacti plants help improve living spaces for all budgets. You can ensure that home plants will thrive in the Phoenix desert with proper planning. The Green Goddess welcomes you to contact us at our Phoenix Nursery for more information.