Succulents and Cactus

Cacti and other succulents; © Valerii Rublov | Dreamstime.com

If your green thumb isn't as green as you'd like it to be, consider raising cacti and succulents. These plants are among the most forgiving in horticulture, and their variety will astound you.

Understanding Succulents and Cacti

Although you'll hear these two names used to describe the plants in this category, technically they are all succulents, and cacti are just a subcategory in the succulent family. Cacti are distinguished from other succulents by their aureole, an area that resembles a tuft of cotton from which the spines and blossoms emerge.

What Makes These Plants Different from Others

The main feature of all succulents is their ability to store water, which enables them to survive in climates that would burn up other types of plants. While most plants need to draw in moisture regularly through their elaborate root systems, cacti and succulents have small root systems and store moisture directly inside themselves. Therefore, they don't need to be watered as often and can withstand droughts quite easily.

Dependable Gardening Information

At LoveToKnow Garden, you'll find dependable growing information from master and expert gardeners on succulents and cacti in the following areas:

Just Getting Started

With so many varieties of cacti and other succulents to choose from, there's bound to be a few of these amazing plants that appeal to you. Some will go great in your garden, while others may be more suitable for your windowsill. Explore this category, and learn everything you need to know to raise them successfully.

Succulents and Cactus