Cactus plants are easy-to-grow houseplants that grow in arid conditions. Most cactus plants are succulents with leaves, called spines, thick stems that store water and shallow roots.
See also: Is Cactus apt as an indoor plant?
Types of indoor cactus plants
There are more than 2,000 indoor cactus varieties in different colours, shapes and sizes
Some of the popular varieties are:
Cereus
Echinocactus
Espostoa
Opuntia
Rebutia
Types of blooming cactus
Some varieties need long nights and short days to bloom. They can be encouraged to bloom by pinching the flowers, not watering them and keeping them in the dark for 12 to 14 hours a day, especially in the months starting October. If done regularly, buds would appear after 6-8 weeks, which would eventually bloom into beautiful flowers.
Christmas cactuses
Thanksgiving cactuses
Honolulu queen
Indoor cactus care
Light
As cactus can grow in harsh climates, they require limited indoor care. When under direct sunlight, they may bloom into beautiful colours with some varieties even giving out fragrance. However, it is a good idea to rotate your cactus’ position as they may start leaning towards the light, thereby, spoiling the growth shape.
Water
When potting cactus in a pot, ensure several drainage holes so that the cactus plant does not have wet roots. Do not water the plant, instead water the soil. It is recommended to water once in 2-3 weeks in warm months and at larger intervals in colder periods. Cactus needs fertilizers 1-2 times a year.
Repotting cactus
Cactus plants grow very slowly and often do not require repotting. However, if it has to be done, follow these steps:
- Use a cactus-succulent potting mix
- Take a bigger container than the present one while repotting
- Wear thick gloves to avoid the thorns
- Remove wilted, brown or yellow portions of the cactus before repotting
- Gently close the plant with the soil
Cactus concerns
- Over-watering may result in root rot and eventually the death of the plant
- Cactus are attacked by insects like spiders, mites, scaleand bugs
- Regularly inspect the cactus for any infection or white spots and treat them on priority
- Be careful with cactus spines as these are sharp and toxic
FAQs
What are all the types of cactuses?
The different types of cactuses are Prickly Pear, Saguaro, Schlumber, San Pedro cactus, Barbary Fig and Golden Barrel cactus.
Which cactus is lucky?
The Aztecs of central Mexico are a lucky cactus.
What is the most common cactus?
The Barrel cactus is the most common cactus.
Is cactus a Vaastu plant?
No, cactus is not considered good for home as per Vaastu.
Is cactus good for the house?
Cactus helps in improving the air quality of the house.
How long do cactus live?
Cactus plants can survive for more than 10 years.
Is Aloe a type of cactus?
While Aloe Vera resembles a cactus, it is not a cactus variety.
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With 16+ years of experience in various sectors, of which more than ten years in real estate, Anuradha Ramamirtham excels in tracking property trends and simplifying housing-related topics such as Rera, housing lottery, etc. Her diverse background includes roles at Times Property, Tech Target India, Indiantelevision.com and ITNation. Anuradha holds a PG Diploma degree in Journalism from KC College and has done BSc (IT) from SIES. In her leisure time, she enjoys singing and travelling.
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