Plant Care Instructions

A couple of important things to remember about cacti and succulents:

They are very easy to kill by over watering and are difficult to kill by under watering.

Always place new plants in light shade.  Small plants will burn in the hot sun.

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Succulent Care

Water

Most succulents need to be watered only once every 1-2 weeks. The soil should be allowed to dry thoroughly between watering. Pour water around the base, do not pour water directly on the succulents. Succulents do not need to be misted. 

Light

Succulents like brightly lit areas with a lot of sunlight. However, do not place in direct sunlight as they may burn. If your succulent has growth that is pale and the plant looks long, leggy and leaning towards the light source, this means that it is not receiving enough sunlight.

Fertilizer

During the summer growing season, fertilizer may be added to the water once a month. Do not fertilize during the winter. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer, about 8-12% nitrogen. Dilute liquid fertilizer twice as much as directed on the label.

Temperature

Succulents can survive a wide range of temperatures, but it is preferable that they are kept in a warm bright location for the best results and the most beautiful color. Most succulent species do well if they are maintained within the range of 40°F to 95°F.

Pests

Inspect often as so to protect them. Use diluted alcohol on brush to remove them, insecticidal soap, or a systemic insecticide poured into the soil around the plant. It's best to quarantine the infected plant to prevent the pests from spreading.

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Cactus Care

Water

Give each plant about 1/4 cup water every week to two weeks, the soil should be allowed to dry thoroughly between watering. Soak the base of the plant, do not pour water directly on the cacti. Stop watering entirely during the winter months. 

Light

Most cacti grow better in well-lit areas. However, do not place in direct sunlight as they may burn. For indoor plants, a south facing window sill would be best, for outdoor plants, bright filtered sunlight is preferred, and avoid hot high noon sunlight.

Fertilizer

During the summer growing season, fertilizer may be added to the water once a month. Do not fertilize during the winter. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer, about 8-12% nitrogen. Dilute liquid fertilizer twice as much as directed on the label.

Temperature

Many cacti are winter hardy. However, some will be damaged if the temperature drops below 32°F. We recommend that they be maintained between 45°F to 95°F.

Pests

Inspect often as so to protect them. Use diluted alcohol on brush to remove them, insecticidal soap, or a systemic insecticide poured into the soil around the plant. It's best to quarantine the infected plant to prevent the pests from spreading.

 

These care instructions are meant to be used as a guide to help you keep your plant friends happy and alive. We strongly recommend identifying the type of plant that you have and do a bit of research for specific plant care information. If you would like help identifying your plant please feel free to send a picture to crystal@opaldesignandnature.com