How to choose your cacti - Mimi Vert

How to choose your cacti - Mimi Vert

Have you ever thought about adding cacti to your plant collection? These prickly little wonders are not only fascinating but also incredibly easy to care for. Whether you're a beginner gardener or an experienced collector, there's a cactus for you! Today, I'll guide you through choosing your cacti and introduce you to some of the most popular and adorable varieties. Ready for a trip to cactus land?

Why choose Cactus?

Cacti are succulent plants that have the ability to store water in their fleshy stems. This makes them extremely drought-resistant and perfect for those who sometimes forget to water their plants. They also add an exotic and original touch to our interior or exterior decor. Their diversity of shapes, sizes, and colors makes them ideal companions for all tastes.

Selection Criteria

Before choosing a cactus, there are a few criteria to consider:

• Light : Most cacti like plenty of light. Make sure you have a bright spot for them, ideally near a sunny window.
• Space : Some cacti stay small, while others can grow quite large. Consider your available space before making your choice.
• Care : Although cacti are easy to care for, some varieties require a little more care than others. If you're a beginner, opt for more resilient and less demanding varieties.

The Different Varieties of Cactus

There are hundreds of varieties of cactus, but here are some of the most popular and easiest to find:

The Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera)

Unlike most cacti, the Christmas cactus blooms in winter, and its colorful flowers (red, pink, white) add a festive touch to your home. It prefers indirect light and moderate watering. It's a great option for adding color during the cold, dark months.

The Easter Cactus (Rhipsalidopsis)

Similar to the Christmas cactus, the Easter cactus blooms in spring with vibrant flowers. It also requires indirect light and regular but moderate watering. Its delicate flowers add a springtime ambiance to any room.

The Candle Cactus (Cereus)

The candle cactus has a slender shape and can grow very tall. It's perfect for adding a vertical touch to your space. It thrives in full sun and requires little water. This majestic cactus can become a true centerpiece in your garden or home.

 

The Echinopsis Cactus

Echinopsis is known for its spectacular flowers that open at night. It thrives on plenty of light and well-drained soil. Its flowers are a real spectacle, with colors ranging from white to vibrant pink. Each bloom is an event not to be missed.

The Mammillaria Cactus

This small, round cactus is covered in small "mamillons" and often pretty pink or white flowers. It is perfect for small spaces and thrives in full sun. Mamillarias are also known for their flower crowns that appear around the top of the cactus, creating a very charming crown effect.

The Opuntia Cactus (Racket Cactus)

The opuntia, or prickly pear cactus, has flat segments and often produces edible fruits called prickly pears. It thrives in full sun and requires good drainage. In addition to its delicious fruit, the flat segments can be used in various Mexican cuisine recipes .

The Ferocactus Cactus

This globular cactus is covered in large spines and can grow quite large. It's perfect for a sunny, dry corner of your garden or home. Ferocactus can survive in extremely arid conditions, making them ideal for gardeners living in dry climates.

The Gymnocalycium Cactus

With its short thorns and colorful flowers, gymnocalycium is a favorite among collectors. It prefers bright, indirect light and moderate watering. Its flowers can be pink, red, white, or yellow, adding a beautiful pop of color to your space.

The Cactus Parodia

This small, round cactus produces vibrant flowers and is very easy to care for. It thrives in indirect light and well-drained soil. Parodias are also known for their rapid growth and ability to adapt to various environments, making them an excellent choice for beginners.

Tips for Choosing the Right Ones!

• Visit a nursery : Specialty nurseries often have a wide variety of cacti and the staff can give you valuable advice.
• Choose healthy plants : Make sure the cactus you choose is healthy. Avoid those with soft spots, discolored areas, or signs of mold.
• Vary the sizes and shapes : For an interesting collection, choose cacti of different sizes and shapes. This will add dynamism to your space.

Taking Care of Your Cacti

Now that you've chosen your cacti, here are some tips for caring for them:

• Watering : The golden rule is to let the soil dry completely between waterings. In winter, reduce watering as cacti are in their dormant period. Too much water can cause root rot, so it's better to water too little than too much.
• Light : Place your cacti in a spot where they receive plenty of light, ideally near a south- or west-facing window. If natural light is insufficient, you can use plant grow lights.
• Soil : Use a soil mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents that provides good drainage. Cacti hate soggy soil.
• Temperature : Cacti prefer warm temperatures, but some can tolerate cooler temperatures. Avoid cold drafts. In winter, keep them protected from frost.

In conclusion, choosing cacti opens you up to a fascinating world of shapes and colors. These prickly little wonders can transform your home and add an exotic and elegant touch. By following these tips, you'll find the perfect cacti for your space and learn to cherish them as they deserve. So, are you ready to embark on your cactus adventure?