an introduction of sorts

[RC]

Hello, as a new member of these forums, I thought to make a cacticentric introduction. I've been raising cacti for at least 25 years, most of this time without any knowledge of the various needs of different genera; for instance, years ago I brought back a bag of North Carolina red clay, thinking that one cactus I had would look great planted in this medium. The plant did look good potted in the clay, and the plant thrived in it, however, when it came time to repot, I was faced with a pot shaped brick (I still have that plant). I care for 22 plants, some cold hardy, some not. All my plants are in pots, they spend the warmer months outside facing high humidity levels and significant variation of day/night temps., and sometime during autumn they're brought into the house to deal with the aridity of a heated house, catching light from a Southerly exposure for many months. Some of my plants are quite large - a 20 year old Saguaro is nearly 2 feet tall, 5-6 inches in diameter - others small. I particularly enjoy a small Gymnocalycium Ragoonesii, which is a flowering powerhouse and quite easy to care for. Perhaps like many other cacti enthusiasts, I use a doctored cacti potting mix, and I encourage the use of an inexpensive moisture meter, especially for potted plants (a moisture meter offers valuable insights into watering habits, and clearly indicates how much moisture remains in a finger dry pot). I hope to share with others on these forums for a greater knowledge of potential missteps, and to appreciate the efforts of others regarding keeping a collection of cacti/succulents healthy and thriving. Happy gardening RC

[Advertisement]

[admin]

Welcome to the forum RC.

[Wes North Van]

Welcome.
With your knowledge, I am sure you will be very helpful for someone like me who has never grown cactus outside but wants to. I live in a mild area zone 8b but it has wet winters and I worry about the survival of cactus here.
_________________
North Vancouver BC Canada Zone 8b/9a

[RC]

Thank you Wes, and welcome. Desertdude has inspired me to begin establishing a raised bed for year 'round cactus plants outside. I hope to document the construction on these pages, inviting helpful suggestions (particularly when it comes to my choice of plants). RC