Most of the time, we think of cacti as the ultimate “set it and forget it” plants because they’re so tough. But even these prickly succulents need a little TLC every now and then! When it comes time to repot them, there are a few common mistakes that can trip you up. To keep your desert friends happy, here are the golden rules for a successful move:
When is the best time to repot?
Cacti are slow growers, so they aren’t exactly demanding a new pot every season. Usually, moving them every three to five years is plenty. You’ll know it’s officially time for a new home when you see roots starting to poke out of the drainage holes at the bottom. If they’re cramped in there, it’s time to upgrade!
Choosing the right soil
To answer the big question: No, grabbing a bag of standard potting soil is not a great idea. For a cactus to really thrive, its soil needs to check a few specific boxes:
- Structural stability to keep the plant upright (especially important for shallow-rooted varieties).
- A loose, crumbly texture that allows for plenty of air circulation.
- Good moisture retention without getting soggy.
- Plenty of nutrients.
- A pH level around 5.5.
- Your best bet is a specialized succulent/cactus mix or a custom DIY blend.
DIY Cactus Soil: The Standard Mix
If you want to mix your own, start with some well-aged compost (about 4 years old). Pro tip: Sterilize it in the oven first to kill off any germs! Mix that with some peat or fiber alternatives (like wood, bark, or coconut coir). Finally, you’ll want to add mineral components like pumice, expanded clay, or lava rock.
A good rule of thumb is a ratio of roughly 60% organic material (compost/soil) to 40% mineral components (like 20% pumice and 20% clay pebbles). Those minerals are the secret to keeping the substrate airy and managing water correctly.
How to repot like a pro
Ready to move your prickly pal? Grab a pair of thorn-proof gloves and follow these simple steps:
- Stop watering your cactus about a week before you plan to move it.
- Carefully remove the plant from its old pot and gently shake off any excess dirt.
- Optional: If you notice any rot on the roots or base, trim those spots away before replanting.
- Optional: If you did have to trim it, let the “wounds” dry out for about a week.
- Prep your new pot with a drainage layer of gravel or clay pebbles at the bottom.
- Fill it with your cactus mix and settle your plant into its new home.
To help your cactus recover from the “moving day” stress, hold off on watering for another week. Also, try to keep it out of direct, harsh sunlight for about 21 days while it gets settled!
