Many people do not realize that there is a difference between cactus plants and succulents. While all cacti are part of the succulent family, succulent plants are not always cacti. The primary difference is the presence of an aereole, which is a small patch or bump that has spines growing from it. The aereole is found on all cacti, but not on all succulents.

A cactus plant is generally very easy to take care of. They simply require sunlight, water and a large pot with proper drainage. It is essential that any water put into the pot drains well because leaving a cacti in standing water will cause it to rot and die. Here are some tips on proper cactus care when you need to put a plant in a new pot:

1. Carefully take the cactus plant out of its current pot while wearing leather gloves.

2. Remove the dirt and trim the roots.

3. Use a large pot that will give the cacti room to grow.

4. Place the roots under the soil but make sure to keep all of the leaves above ground.

5. Find a spot for the newly potted plant where it has access to sunlight.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Put small wooden chips to help absorb water along the bottom of the pot that you are placing your cactus plants in.
• Watch out for bugs that can harm your cacti such as spider mites and aphids.
• Cacti and succulent plants generally do well in soil that is slightly acidic.