Expert: Greg Simpson - 9/4/2007

Question
I've tried twice now to keep a cactus at my desk. It gets pretty cold in here at times - and I have it under a florescent bulb. My second one has gotten "the rot."

Is there no hope? What can survive on my desk?  

Answer
Devon,

Unfortunately, cacti do not make good house plants because they need very intense light for many hours per day. You can try a "grow light" which is one that provides more than just light. You'll want it on at least 15 hours per day.

Also, succulent Euphorbia's are very cactus like, and tolerate lower light situations, you might try some of those. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg