Preserve a cactus by replanting in new soil after purchasing.
When preserving a cactus plant, you need to ensure it has adequate drainage to keep the roots from rotting. Small pebbles sprinkled deep into the soil keep moisture from pooling around the roots. Although cactus can survive long stretches without watering, it still requires regular soil examination so the ground area does not dry out completely. Light is also important to the preservation of the cactus, but surprisingly, the plant requires acclimation to the sun's rays before it can withstand direct sunlight.
Instructions
1. Replant a new cactus in rich, black topsoil along with small pea gravel. Remove the cactus from the container by pulling it up gently using a gloved hand.
2. Pour a 1- to 2-inch layer of pea gravel in the bottom of the plant container. Place topsoil on top of the gravel. Do not mash the soil into the pot as you want tiny spaces for water and oxygen to hide within the soil. Fill the container, leaving 1 to 2 inches from the top. If planting outside, dig a hole 6 inches deep. Sprinkle a layer of pea gravel inside the hole and fill with the topsoil.
3. Dig a small hole in the middle of the pot or the ground with your hand. Lay the cactus roots gingerly into the hole and cover with the soil. Lightly press the soil around the base of the cactus to help brace the plant.
4. Pour 1/8 of a cup of water slowly into the potted container or around the cactus in the ground. For a large outdoor cactus double or triple the amount of water. Allow the water to soak into the soil. The next day, stick your index finger 1 inch deep into the soil. If the end of your finger feels dry, add 1 to 2 tbsp. of water or more for a larger cactus. An inside cactus does not need as much watering as an outdoor plant because of weather factors such as wind, so test your outside cactus at least every two to three days in the dry season.
5. Place a new cactus in an area with bright light, but not direct sunlight so it adapts to the sun slowly. Cactus can sun burn just like the human skin, according to the Texas A&M University.
Tags: into soil, deep into, deep into soil, direct sunlight, layer gravel
