Question
Hello, I bought a cactus from a hardware store yesterday and it seemed to be the healthiest one there. It is a tiny one, about 1 1/2 inches tall. I am not sure the type of cactus I have bought, but I was wondering if you can tell me how to generally care for a cactus. I know it needs to be repotted, but how do I go about doing that? Thank you!

Answer
You're first cactus, that great!  And you're sure it's a cactus?  The reason I ask is because all cactus are succulents but not all succulents are cactus and this is info for cacti.  Succulent care is a bit different.  Anyway...

Cacti are very forgiving.  They thrive on neglect and most are killed by over watering.  If you think your plant is in good soil, leave it there for now. I tend to unpot and look at the roots and repot in a good cactus mix, but I'm a tad obsessive. Put it in a sunny window and if you are able to put it outside, do so gradually - even cactus burn.  When the soil is dry ,which outside in the summer can be more frequent than when indoors, water thoroughly. If you get too much rain it can rot. In that case, keep it more protected.

Then, in Oct. gradually withdraw water, put in a room that is cool and don't water again till March. Most cactus are dormant in winter. At that time I'd get some good cactus mix, or make your own, and repot it.  Look at the roots, make sure they are white and healthy, and put it in a pot not much bigger than the one it's in.  It needs some space around it, but not much. Gradually start to water (if you give too much water, too fast, it will drown).  It needs to build up it's root system after being dormant.

A little cactus can get  quite large and they have beautiful flowers - a good investment.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Have fun,
Maureen