Cacti differ from many other species
due to their ability to survive in
unfavourable conditions such as drought,
harsh climates and severe conditions.
Cacti stems are fleshy, green and photosynthetic,
typically ribbed or covered by tubercles
in rows with leaves being reduced to
spines or entirely absent.
Their ability to live in high temperatures
cause excessive loss of water. They
show a number of adaptations to dry
conditions: reduced leaf area, rolled
leaves, sunken stomata, hairs, spines
and thick cuticles.
Growing cacti
One of the most important factors
in cactus culture is watering appropriately.
The soil mixture, containers, drainage,
temperature, size of plant and type
of plant all effect water use.
Excellent drainage is essential.
All individual plants are different
and thus will have its own idea
of what it should do. All growing
conditions are different and a good
circulation of air is imperative.
During each watering the soil should
be thoroughly moisten and the soil
should be dry before water is added
again.
Cacti need as much bright, indirect
light as possible. (Cacti can suffer
from sunburn too, if placed too quickly
in light that is too bright). Problems
can occur very quickly if the conditions
aren't right. Acclimatize them by gradually
increasing or decreasing exposure
to light.
