When Should Succulents and Cactus-type Plants Be Watered?

Identification

• One of the first steps in successfully growing a cactus or succulent is understanding the difference between the two. According to horticulturists at the University of Illinois, all cacti are part of the succulent family, not the other way around. True cacti have what is called an areole. This is a small, white cottony patch from which spines, flowers and roots grow. Other succulents may have spines, but they won't have this areole.

Soil

• Cacti and other succulents have the ability to store water during drought conditions. This is one of the reasons they make such perfect house plants. Even the most absentminded gardener can keep one alive. A successful succulent begins with proper soil. Experts at the University of Minnesota recommend 1 part potting soil to 1 part coarse sand. To ensure the right mixture, moisten the soil and squeeze it with your hand; if the wet clump breaks apart it's good for your succulent.

Growing Seasons

• Like other plants, succulents have growing seasons. In general, their growing seasons are spring and summer, with a period of dormancy during the fall and winter. During the growing season, keep your succulents warm with direct sunlight and keep them watered. When you water a succulent, water it thoroughly. Soak the soil, but then allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Succulents can actually consume as much water as other plants during the growing season, but they should never be left in standing water. Gradually reduce the frequency of watering as fall approaches, and gradually increase again in the spring.

The Best House Plants

• Dr. Leonard Perry from the University of Vermont has a number of suggestions for cacti and other succulents you can grow in your home. Aloe is easy to care for, attractive and best of all, it's useful. Aloe sap is used in many sunburn creams because of its ability to sooth the skin. The pony tail palm isn't a palm at all; instead, it's a succulent. Its bulbous base supports a stalk with fountainlike leaves shooting out from the top. These plants perform well as potted plants. Jade plants are so named for their glossy, jade-colored leaves. Start them off in a large, heavy pot, as older plants can get top heavy. Don't get water on these plants' leaves, as it can cause spots.