The Proper Way to Water Cactus House Plants

Watering Musts

• Cactus plants are notorious for soaking and storing water. Give your cactus plant just enough time to dry between each watering. Telltale signs the cactus is dry include lighter colored soil. If the plant or soil is medium dark it is still wet and the plant should not be watered yet.

Testing the Soil

• If the plant is dry, stick your finger in the soil to check it. If you come up with dirt that is grainy, you can water your cactus again. You can also wait until your plant begins to show distress before watering. Because of the nature of cacti, they will be able to rebound from slight distress.

Watering Less

• Reduce watering while the plant is dormant, or when the plant is not growing. You will also have to cut the watering down when the weather is cold and the plant is between seasons.

How to Water

• Indoor cacti need water about once per month. Never get water on the top of the cactus. The watering should be concentrated to the lower levels of the plant, and should be kept beneath the leaves of the cactus. Also, cold water should never be used to water the plant. If you think that you may be over-watering the plant, leave it for a few days to see how it will respond. These types of plants respond better to neglect that to over-nurturing.