Coast of Maine 'Mount Desert Island Mix' Cactus& Succulent Mix
• Choose a container that will fit the cactus plants / succulents that you have chosen with a little room to spare for growth. A 3”- 4” depth container is adequate (cacti have shallow roots), and a drainage hole is needed. Clay pots are perfect.
• Fill the dish 1/3 to 1/2 full with Mount Desert Island Blend.
• Remove each plant from its pot and arrange in the container. Place tall-growing plants in the center and alternate plants with different shapes, textures and colors to create a miniature desert landscape.
• Once all plants are in place, add more mix to cover the root balls. Lightly press the potting mix around the plants, leaving about 1/2” to 1” space below the rim of the container to allow for watering. To avoid rotting the plant, cover only the plant’s roots with soil.
• Spread small pebbles or clean sand over the top of the soil after you’re done planting.
• Water sparingly after planting, just a small amount around each root ball. Keep in mind that cacti need less water than succulents. Place the cactus garden in a sunny warm location.
• Remove the plant from its old pot using tongs, rubber gloves or rolled-up towel if it has spines. If it is pot-bound, use a knife and gently slip it around the inside of the pot to loosen it.
• Place the plant in the center of the pot and add mix to cover the root ball. Lightly press the potting mix around the plant, leaving about 1/2” to 1” space below the rim of the container to allow for watering. Make sure the plant is sitting at the same depth as it was in the original pot.
• Water the plant lightly and place in a sunny, warm location.
In the spring and summer, when the cactus is actively growing, the soil should be kept damp at around 1” below the surface. Also, during this time, fertilize 2 or 3 times with a fertilizer intended for these plants. Be careful not to over-water in the colder months when they are dormant and withhold all fertilizer.