How to: Indoor Cactus

Cacti come in two primary varieties -- those that grow in arid desert climates and those native to the tropical rain forests. Desert cacti have evolved to thrive in a range of temperatures with minimal moisture. The tropical cacti, often referred to as flowering holiday cacti, require more moisture than desert varieties. Both types of cactus plants have similar care requirements when grown as indoor potted plants.

Fertilizer
Pot
Cactus soil
Peat
Potting soil
Sand

Instructions

- 1
  Place the cactus pot in a location that receives all-day sun, such as near a south-facing window. Choose a warm location with temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit for best growth. Lower temperatures between 45 and 55 degrees during the fall and winter encourage tropical cacti to produce flower buds.
- 2
  Water desert cacti when the top 1/2 to 1 inch of soil feels completely dry. Water tropical cacti before the top 1/2 inch of soil dries completely. Water less frequently during fall and winter when the cacti are in a semi-dormant state.
- 3
  Fertilize both types of cacti once monthly in the spring and summer. Apply a soluble 5-10-5 or similar low-nitrogen fertilizer at the lowest rate recommended on the package.
- 4
  Repot the cacti in spring when the base of the plant grows to within 1/4 inch of the pot rim. Plant the cacti into a pot one size larger than the old one. Use a cacti potting mixture or equal parts potting soil, peat and coarse sand to create your own mix.

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