Cactus Garden

Walt Disney World horticulturist Grace Skidmore shows how easy it is to care for cactus--a plant that rewards the gardener with beautiful flowers, interesting shapes and textures, all while thriving on neglect. Cacti, as members of the family of succulent plants, are masters at storing and conserving water in their stems and leaves. These hardy succulents can be planted either in pots or directly in the ground.

1. Select a cactus that looks sturdy and is well-rooted. Avoid plants with broken or scarred leaves.
2. If the cactus is potted in plaster of Paris, remove it from the pot and soak the root ball until the plaster comes apart.
3. Soil mix recipe: one part coarse sand, one part potting soil and one part leaf mold or compost.
4. Place potted cactus in a shady spot for a few days, then gradually introduce to direct sunlight.
5. When watering, be sure to allow thorough draining. Be careful not to overwater, and never allow a saucer underneath the pot to collect water.

Also in this Episode

Way to Grow : Episode WTG-156
•	Ornamental Herbs
•	Cactus Garden
•	Sterilizing Pots