HYDRATING YOUR CACTI AND SUCCULENT CREW

The soak-and-dry method for watering plants is a great technique that helps prevent over-watering. Follow Barry’s tips for happy and healthy plants:

One of Barry’s Pal’s getting a good old drenching at Barry HQ

Less is always more with cacti. You should always aim to replicate its hot, arid environment by allowing the soil to recover from moisture before giving him a good soak. You are trying to replicate rain rather than humidity, so a watering can or tap is the best method, misting a cactus will do more harm than good

 Allow complete drying

Before you start the soil should be completely dry.  Root rot is caused by FREQUENCY of watering, as opposed to volume of water per drink. You can check the soil colour to distinguish if it needs another water or feel its weight, if it is super light its likely very dry and could do with a drink! 

Deep watering

Water the plant thoroughly until water flows out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the water reaches the roots. Alternatively, Pour water into the ceramic pot so that the soil is fully submerged.  Leave for 5 minutes to allow for the water to soak into the soil then carefully tip the pot over a sink and drain out all of the water. Make sure the plant is not sitting in a puddle as this may cause waterlogging and root rot. 

Adjust watering frequency

The frequency of watering will vary depending on factors like the succulent species, pot size and environmental conditions. Cacti and succulents will require  ALOT less frequent watering compared to other house plants.

Seasonal variations

During the active growth period, usually spring and summer, succulents will require more frequent watering. However, in colder months or dormant periods, they will need less or none at all.

Remember to observe any signs of overwatering or underwatering, such as yellowing leaves, wilting or root rot, and make necessary adjustments to your watering routine.

And finally, it's SO important to use a good cactus potting mix so it only holds onto some moisture before dripping the rest through the drainage holes. 

Happy watering pals!

Check out this handy Moisture meter! Say goodbye to cactus watering guesswork and hello to confident care!

Moister Meter