Cactus 🌵
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- How and when to plant (seeds, cuttings, or offsets)
- Light, watering, and temperature needs for each cactus type
- Fertiliser schedules for steady growth and flowering
- Repotting, soil mixes, and container care tips
- Pest prevention and nutrient troubleshooting
What are the best cactus varieties to grow in Australia?
Australia’s dry climate makes it ideal for a wide range of cacti, from classic desert species like prickly pear, golden barrel, and San Pedro to ornamental and flowering types such as Easter cactus and Christmas cactus. Hardy columnar cacti like Blue Torch and Totem Pole thrive outdoors in warm regions, while smaller succulents such as Mammillaria and Haworthia are perfect for pots and indoor displays. For beginners, fast-growing and low-maintenance cacti like Opuntia and Cereus are among the most rewarding — drought-tolerant, resilient, and striking in appearance. Explore our care guides to choose the best cactus varieties for your home, garden, or collection.
How often should I water cactus plants?
Cacti are naturally drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly. Young or newly potted cacti may need more frequent watering during their first growing season, but mature plants generally thrive with deep watering every 2–4 weeks in the warmer months. In winter, most species go dormant and may only need water once every 4–6 weeks. Always allow the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot. For potted cacti, ensure containers have excellent drainage and use a sandy, free-draining mix. Our plant-specific cactus guides include watering schedules tailored to different species, from tropical epiphytic cacti to desert types.
Why isn’t my cactus growing or flowering?
A cactus that isn’t thriving may be struggling with one of several factors: insufficient light, overwatering, poor soil drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Flowering cacti, such as Christmas and Easter cactus, also require correct seasonal light cycles and a cooler dormant period to bloom. Outdoor desert cacti like golden barrel and prickly pear need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily, while indoor species prefer bright but indirect light. Over-fertilising can lead to weak, elongated growth instead of strong, compact forms. Our troubleshooting tips in each cactus care guide help you identify the cause and correct it — whether it’s adjusting sunlight, improving the soil mix, or using the right fertiliser at the right time.
Why is my cactus turning yellow or soft?
Yellowing or soft spots in cacti are often a sign of overwatering, poor drainage, or root rot. Excess moisture prevents roots from accessing oxygen, weakening the plant. In some cases, nutrient deficiencies or sudden exposure to strong sun can also cause yellowing. Pests like mealybugs may damage tissues, leading to discolouration and softness. To fix this, check soil drainage, reduce watering, and repot the plant into a dry, sandy cactus mix if needed. Regular feeding with a balanced cactus fertiliser during the growing season also helps prevent nutrient-related yellowing.