Growing Cacti
If you need a yard that is easy to care for and maintain, consider growing cacti and succulent plants. Cactus plants are not only a versatile addition to your outdoor garden, they don’t require a lot of devotion caring for them.
Light – Many varieties of cactus plants do best in full sun or at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. Consider growing cacti in areas that receive enough light but if you environment is consistently shaded, select varieties that can handle less light.
Water – Cacti like to stay dry so you may not need to water them at all if you grow them in well-drained environment. However, don’t let the soil become bone-dry. If you grow cactus in containers or pots, make sure the top several inches of the potting is mix-dry.
Soil – Cactus plants grow in a variety of soil conditions, but they do well in sandy, rocky soils. You can replicate such conditions by mixing coarse sand with potting mix, and then cover the top of the soil with gravel after planting to keep in moisture. Add a little time-release fertilizer when you plant the seedlings.
Maintenance – One good thing with cacti is that they can thrive with less care of it. That’s because the plants are relatively hands-off. However, you will still need to occasionally check for pests and weeds. And if you’re looking for perfect plant combinations, start with low growers like Echeveria varieties. You can use these plants for perimeter of your gardens, borders and walkways.
To add the vertical appeal, bring in upright growers like African milk team (Euphorbia lactea) or Mexican fencepost cactus (Lemaireocereus marginatus). Lastly, create colorful contrasts in your yard by pairing cactus plants with purple and yellow-flowering varieties so as to achieve that stunning, eye-catching contrast you desire.
If you are looking for some easy lawn plants in the Fresno are – Cacti are the way to go! Great curb appeal as well!