Expert: Greg Simpson - 1/20/2007

Question
Hi Greg,
I need help!! I have 2 cactus's that are 6' & 7' tall. My problem is that I need to repot them and I'm unsure of what kinda of planter and dirt are best. I have always used just plain ol' cactus soil before, with all my other cactus'. Since these are so tall, and old I would hate to mess this up and kill either one of them. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks, Cindi Ackerlund, Roslyn Wash.

Answer
Dear Cindi,

What you have been using will work great. Just make sure to "tamp" the soil around the roots. What tamping is, is taking a broom or shovel handle, and hitting the soil with it around the perimeter of the pot. This process packs the soil down and will prevent a tall cactus from falling over. Also, either use a wide plastic pot or a ceramic pot, as those will also help to keep the plant from tipping over. Hopefully this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg