Expert: Maureen - 1/18/2012

Question
Just moved to the Phoenix area and I have a prickly pear, totem pole, golden barrel and twisted peruvian cactus in my yard. Do these Cacti need to be watered at all?

I will not be here in the summer but I have a drip system in my yard, if they need to be watered, I can run the drip system to these cacti.

Thanks

Answer
Dear Dan,

Congratulations on some great plants! As a rule, from April to September established cactus plants only need to be watered once a month at a slow drip for 2-3 hours, so should be on a separate drip system from plants that need more frequent watering. They should dry out completely between waterings.  In the winter they shouldn't be watered at all as this is their dormant period.  Remember, your yard is an extension of the desert, so think about your cactus needs in that way.  You can also check with your neighbors and see how they take care of their cactus. Over watering is the worst thing for your plants, so less is always better.

Hope this helps,

Maureen