Expert: Greg Simpson - 11/8/2006

Question
have several cacti in pots would like to plant them in the ground.I live in the Huntington beach area calif. also where can I get fertilizer for my cacti. Thanks

Answer
Dear Mike,

That should not be a problem, just make sure to plant them (north/south) the same way they are sitting in their pots. If they are not in direct sunlight, then you need to shade them with a light, white material for a month or so until they get used to being outside. You also won't need to water nearly as often, probably only in the summer months. Lastly, if you get frost in that area, you will need to cover them on nights when it is expected to go below 32 degrees - at least for the first year.

As far as fertilizer goes, I really don't use it. However, a very good all purpose product is called Superthrive and can be used as a fertilizer or when transplanting to prevent shock.

Hope this helps.

Greg