Build the Perfect Mini Garden With the Best Cactus Starter Kits

What Is the Benefit of Growing Cactus? 

Whether you should grow cactus or not (or any other succulent plants, for that matter) has always been a top debate between gardening enthusiasts and experts. Some claim these thorny plants are responsible for bringing negative energies to your indoors. Meanwhile, some claim it to have healing powers.

But, here, we will talk about facts and science. 

Similar to any other plant, cactus respire through photosynthesis, and its product oxygen is beneficial for humans. During this process, the cactus also absorbs carbon dioxide.  

Hence, growing cactus can help increase the ratio of oxygen to carbon dioxide in a room. And, an increased supply of oxygen makes your health better. You are also likely to feel refreshed and energetic.

Placing these green plants around your workspace also has a positive impact on your mind. One feels noticeably calm, focused, and more productive. Overall, growing cactus can be great for one’s health.

Features of the Best Cactus Starter Kit

There is a huge diversity of the best cactus starter kits available in the market. And so, finding the right one can be difficult, especially when you wish to have successful results in a single go. 

Below, we have compiled some important features that can make purchasing the idealistic cactus kit easy.  Read more!

Types of Cactus

Different cactus growing kits include different types of cactus species. These include:

• Prickly pear
• Saguaro 
• Bunny cactus
• Golden barrel cactus

Some even include succulent seeds to help you a variety in your mini garden. If you’re looking for specific types, then examine the contents written on the package.  

Quantity and quality of seeds 

It is okay for some seeds to sprout and some do not. But, investing so much time in growing cactus only to find not a single one is successful can be heart-wrecking. Hence, always opt for cactus starter kits that promise tested and certified seeds. 

These high-quality seeds guarantee growth when provided with the right conditions. In case you’re unsure, choose kits that have plenty of seeds for each variety. So, even if a mistake happens, you will have a few seeds left to experiment with.  

Ease of use 

It doesn’t matter if you're a beginner or an expert in cactus gardening. When purchasing a cactus grow kit, do ensure the inclusion of a guide. Sometimes, the treated seeds require a unique method to grow successful cacti. Having a manual by the company can make things a lot easier.  

Accessories 

Apart from all this, you should also examine the grow kit contents for other tools and supplies. These accessories can save the hassle of purchasing things separately.

The majority of cactus growing kits come along with soil mixes, pots, and plant markers. However, some only include seeds or soil mixes.

How Do You Grow Cactus?

Growing cactus kits is quite simple and easy. Usually, each kit includes a detailed manual that you can use to start the cactus. However, in case the kit doesn’t include one, here are the steps to follow.

• Prepare the soil mix. Most cactus growing kits come with expandable soil discs. You have to remove the paper lining, place them in the pot, and add some water. Alternatively, you can purchase a prepared soil mix from the store. 
• Transfer the mix into a pot and plant seeds in the middle.
• Add some water to moisten up the soil. 
• Cover the pot with a plastic bag if stated in the instructions manual.
• Place plant markers in the pot. 

Monitor the plant and water regularly until the seed germinates.

Tips on Taking Care of Cactus

All plants require some care and maintenance to stay healthy indoors. You can’t leave a plant by the window, with plentiful water and nutritious soil, for days. And expect it to grow into a lush green plant.  

Several problems can occur during this period. For cactus, the most common issue is mold and overwatering. 

Cactus require considerable amounts of water over a long period. You need to leave a hose with water dripping slowly around the roots. However, people tend to water them all at once. 

This particular practice, when coupled with insufficient sunlight, leads to the development of mold. The fungus spreads from the soil to the roots, causing the cactus to die.  Hence, you should water the cactus properly and place it in a sunny place. Also, only water when you find the top-most 2 to 3-inches of soil dry.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Growing a Cactus

Now that you're familiar with some helpful tips on growing a cactus, here are five common mistakes you'll want to avoid.