How to Grow a Candelabra Cactus

Candelabra Cactus From Seed

• 1

  Sow candelabra cactus seeds on the surface of compost formulated for succulents. Moisten the soil thoroughly with warm water. Cover the seeds with a fine layer of grit or sand as thick as the seeds are long. Place the container inside a plastic bag.

• 2

  Remove the container from the bag once your candelabra cactus seeds have started to germinate. Place it in a bright location that does not receive direct sunshine.

• 3

  Pot your candelabra cactus when it is large enough to handle. This may take some time, as the seedlings are only an inch tall after five years. Use equal parts of loam and sand with 10 percent of small gravel mixed in for drainage.

Planting Large Candelabra Cactus Outdoors

• 4

  Plant your candelabra cactus on a south-facing slope that receives plenty of sunshine and has a minimum average temperature of 45 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit when mature, but young plants need to be protected from frost.

• 5

  Avoid watering your candelabra cactus. Do not place drip or spray irrigation close by. Check that the site you choose does not get water runoff from nearby lawns or gardens.

• 6

  Avoid disturbing the area around a candelabra cactus as it has a shallow and easily damaged root system. Candelabra cactus does not need fertilizing.

Candelabra Cactus in Pots

• 7

  Keep potted candelabra cactus in a greenhouse or on a bright windowsill.

• 8

  Water thoroughly during the winter growing season, allowing all excess water to drain away. Allow the soil to dry thoroughly between waterings. During the summer, apply enough water to prevent your candelabra cactus from shriveling.

• 9

  Fertilize your potted candelabra cactus once a year using a fertilizer formulated for succulents.