Important note
The information below provides general guidelines based on common cultivation practices and standard nursery experience. However, not all cactus and succulent species have the same requirements: some may need different conditions regarding light, watering, substrate, or temperature. For best results, it is always advisable to check the specific needs of each individual species.
► 1. Unpack and let them acclimate
Once received, gently remove the plants from the packaging and let them rest for a few days in a bright place without direct sunlight, so they can recover from transport stress and temperature changes.
► 2. Initial inspection
Check the overall condition of the plant and roots. Slight dehydration or somewhat soft tissues are normal after shipping; any obvious damage should instead be evaluated immediately.
► 3. Wait before repotting
If the plants were shipped bare-root or recently removed from their pots, it is advisable to wait 2–5 days before repotting (depending on season, temperature, and humidity).
This period allows any small root injuries caused during unpacking to heal, reducing the risk of infections or rot.
► 4. Do not water immediately
After repotting, avoid watering right away.
It is better to wait several days and water only when the substrate is completely dry.
In winter:
if plants are not grown in climate-controlled environments (heated greenhouses or grow rooms), it is recommended to delay the first watering until:
• particularly sunny days occur
or
• seasonal temperatures rise consistently.
This greatly reduces the risk of root rot.
► 5. Gradual light exposure
After the journey (often in darkness), acclimate cacti to light progressively. Placing them immediately in full sun can cause epidermal sunburn.
► 6. Recovery period
Shipping represents physiological stress. During the first days, avoid fertilizers, repeated repotting, or drastic environmental changes. Stability and gradual adaptation are essential.
■ Nursery-style summary (short version)
Unpack carefully → let acclimate → wait 2–5 days before repotting → do not water immediately → gradual light → slow recovery.
► Light exposure
• Cacti love strong light and prefer bright or sunny positions (even near a bright window) for at least 6–8 hours per day.
• However, avoid full sun under extreme heat, because above about 35 °C photosynthesis slows down and the plant may become stressed.
► Soil and drainage
• Use a well-draining substrate specifically made for cacti and succulents.
• A mix containing sand or gravel helps prevent water stagnation, which causes root rot.
► Proper watering
• Water only when the soil is completely dry. Cacti are desert plants and tolerate drought very well.
• In spring/summer you can water roughly once a week in warm conditions; in winter drastically reduce or stop watering because the plant enters dormancy.
► Moderate fertilization
• Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring/summer) using a fertilizer designed for succulents.
• Avoid excess nutrients, especially nitrogen, which promotes weak growth instead of flowering.
► Spring / Summer
• Move cacti outdoors if night temperatures stay above about 12 °C and gradually acclimate them to direct sunlight.
► Autumn / Winter
• Bring plants indoors or into a bright greenhouse and water much less, since excess moisture during dormancy can cause rot.
• Avoid water stagnation
A well-draining soil mix with gravel or pumice at the bottom of the pot helps prevent standing water that damages roots.
• Repot every few years
When a cactus outgrows its pot or the soil becomes compacted, repot into a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining substrate.
• Light adaptation
If you move a cactus suddenly from partial shade to full sun, always acclimate it gradually to prevent sunburn.