How to Plant a Cactus Container Garden

Because they store water in their fleshy leaves, stems or roots, succulents, like cacti, can survive in harsh conditions such as deserts, scrublands and mountains. This project takes one hour to complete.

Materials Needed:

• several small cactus and succulent plants
• large flower container
• cactus potting mix

• garden gloves
• tongs
• plastic cowboys and Native Americans

1. Put gravel in the container.

Sprinkle a thin layer of gravel into a seed tray. Most cacti have shallow roots, since they store water in their stems. Add 1–2 in (2–5 cm) of cactus potting mix, and make holes for the plants. Cover your cacti with clear plastic bottles or containers to keep them warm.

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2. Take the cacti out of their old containers.

Beginning with the largest cactus, ease each plant gently out of its old container. Wear gloves and use tongs or wrap the cactus in newspaper, paper towels, or light cardboard.

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3. Plant the cactus.

Place the first cactus into its hole. Use the back of a spoon to press the soil down around its base. Transplant the rest of the plants in the same way.

Enlarge Photo+Shrink Photo-DK - Ready Set Grow! © 2010 Dorling Kindersley Limited