What kind of mixture do I need to transplant cacti?



When transplanting cacti and succulents, you should use a well-drained mixture that will allow the soil to drain completely between waterings. We recommend a mixture that contains sand, pumice, and potting mix. A sample of our mixture is called "Cactus and Succulent Mix" and is made exclusively by our nursery. You can purchase our soil online, visit our nursery in Pasadena, California, or make your own mixture.

How far do I plant the cactus in the soil?

You should fill the container about 2 to 2 1/2 inches from the top. Next, place the cactus in the center of the mixture and secure it with more soil.

What type of container should I use for transplanting?



There are many different kinds of containers that you can choose from: porous clay, plastic, glazed ceramic or stoneware. Porous clay containers allow the water to evaporate through the wall, thus keeping the roots cool. Yet clay containers do require more moisture, so just be sure to water more often. If you prefer plastic or ceramic containers, these pots do not allow water to evaporate as quickly as terra cotta pots. While plastic and glazed (or ceramic) pots may provide a more decorative touch for your cacti and succulents, be sure to allow the containers to drain more frequently.

What size should the container be when I transplant the cactus?

You should select a container, use a pot that is one size larger than the previous container. By planting your cactus into a larger pot, you will encourage the plant to quickly expand its root system, at the expense of any growth on top.

When should I water the plant after transplanting?



After transplanting, do not water between 1-2 days. By allowing the plants to settle in the new mixture prior to watering, you will prevent root and stem rot from occuring. If the plants are very dry before transplanting, you can lightly mist the cactus to keep them fresh. The best time to water cacti is during the morning or evening hours. Do not water them in full sun. Plants will start to become scorched and wilted.

Should I fertilize the cactus after transplanting?



It is best to wait for several days before fertilizing the cactus. Allow time between transferring the cactus into a new mixture and container before immediately fertilizing. We recommend that you use a well-balanced fertilizer that contains these main ingredients: Nitrogen, Potassium, and Phosophorus. You can use either a granular or water-soluble fertilizer depending on your needs. Granular fertilizers often are slow-released ones that you use between every 3 months to once a year. Water-soluble fertilizers can be diluted in water and used once a month. You can use general fertilizers such as Miracle Gro and use them at half strength.

How do I handle cacti during transplanting?



You can repot your cactus that has sharp-looking spines without suffering injury to yourself or the plant. A good pair of gardening gloves will give you protection when transplanting cacti, which can be held in one hand. In addition, use some newspaper to help prevent the thorns from sticking to your hands. Larger plants can be handled by cradling them in strips of woolen blanket, sponge foam, or better yet, both.

What are signs that I need to transplant a cactus?



1). For globular and clustered cacti: Do it before the plant starts pushing against the sides of the pot and you can no longer see any soil or top dressing.

2). For columnar cacti: If you find that the cactus is becoming top-heavy, can be knocked or blown over, then you need a bigger container for these cacti.

Quick Tips:

1). When in doubt about transplanting cacti and succulents, only repot the plants in the spring, which is generally when the plants emerge from their dormancy.
2). It is not recommended that you repot during the winter season.
3). Remember that when you repot a plant with flower buds, the buds will most likely die.