Cacti My New Interest
Cacti My New Interest
Table of contents
Cacti My New Interest
Discovering the Charm of Cacti: A New Obsession for a Keen Gardener
As someone who’s always had a passion for gardening, I’ve dabbled in everything from vegetables to flowering shrubs, but one group of plants has largely escaped my notice—until now. Enter cacti, those prickly, resilient wonders of the plant world. It might seem odd, but despite their reputation for being tough desert dwellers, cacti make incredible houseplants, especially when displayed proudly on a kitchen windowsill.
Why Cacti?
For years, I’ve been drawn to traditional outdoor gardening, but I never paid much attention to houseplants, especially cacti. However, once I took a closer look, I realised that cacti offer something truly special. Their sculptural forms, wide variety of shapes, and low-maintenance lifestyle make them perfect companions for indoor spaces.
Cacti belong to the succulent family, meaning they store water in their thick, fleshy tissues, allowing them to survive in some of the harshest conditions on Earth. But the beauty of these plants isn’t just in their survival skills—it’s in their aesthetic appeal. Whether you prefer the spiky look of a golden barrel cactus or the architectural elegance of the tall and slender Euphorbia, there’s a cactus for every taste.
The Perfect Kitchen Companion
One of the best places to grow cacti indoors is the kitchen windowsill. Kitchens are usually bright, well-lit areas, which is ideal for these sun-loving plants. Cacti thrive in bright, indirect light, so a windowsill that gets a lot of sunshine but not too much scorching direct sunlight is perfect. They not only add a touch of nature to your space but also give a minimalist, modern feel to your décor.
Plus, cacti don’t mind a bit of neglect! Unlike some of the more temperamental houseplants, cacti can handle a missed watering or a bit of dust. In fact, they often do better when left alone.
Basic Cactus Care
Despite their tough exterior, cacti do need a bit of attention now and then to keep them happy. But don’t worry, they’re not fussy—just a few simple tips can make all the difference.
1. Watering
The key to cactus care is proper watering. These plants are built for drought conditions, so overwatering is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. The golden rule is to water them sparingly. During the warmer months (spring and summer), give your cactus a good soak about once every two to three weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In the winter, you can stretch this to once a month or even less. Cacti don’t need much water when they’re not actively growing.
2. Light
Cacti love the light! Place them on a sunny windowsill, preferably facing south or west for the best results. However, be mindful of the intensity of the sunlight—too much direct sunlight, especially in the summer, can scorch the plants. If you notice any signs of browning or shrivelling, move them slightly away from the window.
3. Soil and Potting
Good drainage is essential for cacti. They hate sitting in water, so a well-draining potting mix is a must. You can buy cactus-specific soil mixes from garden centres, which are usually a blend of sand, perlite, and regular potting soil. Make sure your cactus is in a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
4. Fertilising
While cacti don’t need much food, giving them a little boost during the growing season (spring and summer) can help them thrive. Use a diluted cactus fertiliser once a month. In the colder months, when the plant isn’t growing as actively, you can skip this altogether.
Starting Your Own Collection
Today I am visiting Abbey Brook Cactus Nursery in Matlock, Derbyshire. Once I started, I quickly discovered how addictive cactus collecting can be. There’s something about their hardy nature and quirky shapes that makes each one feel unique. From small, spherical varieties like the Mammillaria to the grand, branching Cereus, there’s an endless variety to explore. I now have several on my kitchen windowsill, each with its own distinct character.
In a way, cacti remind me of the wisdom that comes with gardening in general—patience, resilience, and the joy of watching life take root in unexpected places. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance but rewarding way to bring a little greenery into your home, I highly recommend giving cacti a go. Trust me, once you start, you’ll be hooked!