To look after a cactus, you can water it when the soil is dry, provide it with bright, indirect sunlight, and use a well-draining potting mix. You can also remove dead flowers and cut away any rotting parts.

Watering

Water your cactus when the top half-inch of soil is dry.
Water more frequently during the growing season (spring and summer).
Water less frequently during the winter, or even once a month.
Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
Empty any excess water from the saucer or cachepot after watering.

Sunlight

Place your cactus in a bright location with indirect sunlight.

A south-facing window can provide good sunlight.

Avoid placing your cactus in direct sunlight, which can cause it to turn yellow.

Potting mix

Use a well-draining cactus potting mix.

Handling

Wear thick gloves or use tongs when handling your cactus.

Wrap the cactus in a towel or newspaper when repotting or pruning.

Avoid cacti with spines that could easily get lodged in your skin or eyes.

Deadheading

Remove dead flowers quickly after they are spent. Faded blossoms can rot after it rains.

Rotting

Cut away any black or brown sections of the cactus.

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