Cacti A Growing Gift Trend

By:  Sam T. Jensen — [email protected]

Humboldt, Iowa — This holiday season, a growing trend is gifting family and friends Cacti or succulents. While thoughtful, if someone doesn’t know how to properly care for an indoor plant, it could have disastrous results.

Yvonne McCormick, Iowa State University Horticulturist, says no matter what type of holiday cactus you have, you need well-drained, moderately moist soil conditions. Cacti bloom best when roots are slightly pot-bound, keeping soil somewhat dry until buds begin to form.

Plants should be kept in a cool room, around 65 degrees, with bright light. More plant care information is available in the ISU publication Growing Holiday Cacti at iastate.edu.