How to Care for a Cereus Cactus

Pot the cereus in well-draining soil composed of half sand, half potting mix. Allow soil to dry between waterings. Too much water will rot the roots, killing the plant. Fertilize once per month. Don't repot often, as a smaller pot will encourage the cereus cactus to produce more flowers.

Keep your cereus cactus near a sunny window, especially one facing east. Place it outdoors during the summer, preferably under a tree where it will get some afternoon protection from direct sun. Bring the cereus inside before the first frost.

Train against a trellis or support if you want the cereus cactus to have an upright growing pattern. Allow it to sprawl if you prefer a spreading plant.

Cut stems back to control growth pattern and size. The cereus is a fast grower, and stems can reach several feet in length. Remove the thinnest stems at the base of the plant.

Reduce watering and stop fertilizing during the winter. This will encourage the cereus to bloom each year from mid-summer through autumn.