Green thumbs are unfortunately not something that everyone is born with. Some of us struggle to keep even the heartiest house plants alive. If you want to have some greenery in your home, but you are concerned that you?ll just be sacrificing more plants when you have them under your care, there is a solution for you. Cactus gardening is becoming more and more popular and with just a few simple instructions you are on your way.
These plants are arguably the easiest there are to take care of. Although there are many different varieties of cactus, generally they all require sun and just a little watering. Cactus gardening typically consists of planting several cactus varieties in a shallow pot and adding some aesthetic touches to the arrangement in the form of small rocks or beads.
Naturally you?re not going to be shopping for the same size of plants that are found in the desert. Instead find plants that will fit into a small cactus gardening pot. Most gardening centers will offer a nice selection of different cactus varieties so you won?t be limited in choice.
The type of soil that you use really does matter in the case of planning these long-lasting beautiful plants. Potting soil that you would typically use for house plants is a good foundation but you?ll also need some quality sand. Don?t be tempted to steal a bucket of sand from your local playground as it?s likely it was treated with chemicals to make it sterile. Instead purchase a small bag of potting sand. Mixing the soil with the sand will help the cactus thrive.
Watering should be infrequent. Some individuals who enjoy this pastime have found it best to add water to their cactus gardening arrangement once a month. This is really up to you and dependent largely on the humidity in the home as well as the amount of water you are adding. Never add so much water that the soil is completely drenched. The plants don?t need this and it can actually damage them.
If you live in a climate that offers hot summer days, this arrangement can also be placed outside. Keeping it up high on a picnic table is a good idea particularly if you have pets wandering around. Leaving the cactus gardening pot outside until the fall arrives and the temperatures dip is fine. It can add a nice focal point to any backyard.
Regardless of where you keep it, you?ll be so proud of yourself for maintaining it. Keeping cacti alive isn?t difficult as long as you do remember to water them at least occasionally and offer them lots of sunshine. Once you see how healthy it is after a few months you may even be inspired to try some other gardening.