Thimble Cactus 'Arizona Snowcap'

What could be more dry hardy and easier to care for than the Cactus? Cacti are a top plant for all ages and a great way to encourage kids to garden. All you need to grow Cactus successfully is well drained soil, a brightly lit position and the restraint not to water.

This handsome cactus will produce offsets of upright stems. The stems are dark green and are all but covered in short clusters of white spikes that gives them that snow kissed look. (They store their water in the tubercles behind these spines). Each branch is 1-3cm across and they will grow to crowd the pot.

It will even produce small cream flowers with a flush of pink at the top in spring and summer. The longer you have it, the more stems that will grow, gradually filling the pot. Allow them to keep in a cluster rather than separating if you want the best blooms.

SIZE (HxW): 5-10cm x 5-15cm

I SEE THE LIGHT: Choose a brightly lit position out of the hot afternoon sun (which may burn the leaves or damage the roots in the pot). Indoors, place your pot Cactus by a sunny window. If you are growing yours outdoors and live in a cold area it is best bought indoors for winter.

I NEED A DRINK: Low water needs, water lightly then allow the soil to dry out before watering again. You are more likely to kill it with kindness than neglect. In pots, water the soil (not the foliage) as it begins to dry out. This will be roughly once a week in the warmer months and once every 2-3 weeks in winter – but always test this as different microclimates are just that. They will flower better after a dry winter.

I WILL SURVIVE: In pots use a well drained potting mix specially formulated for succulents and cactus. They aren’t huge fans of humidity, so it is best to ensure they have good air flow. You can remove the offsets as required, or allow them to fill the pot. Repot every three or four years to maintain vigour.

You don’t need to fertilise them very often or much, a diluted liquid feed to quarter strength in spring and summer is all they need to thrive.