How to Transplant a Small Cactus

Cacti are easy to grow, come in many sizes and shapes and last a long time. More than 2,000 species exist that grow from 1 to 10 feet tall. Cacti are native to the Americas and grow naturally in sandy, dry soil. The only thing that makes cacti challenging is their spines, which are bristly, sharp or barbed, making them hard to handle, even with the aid of heavy gloves.

Potting soil
Builder’s sand
Terra cotta pot
Window screen
Newspaper
Small spade
Measuring cup
Dippler or pencil with an eraser
Small stones

Instructions

- 1
  Mix soil for transplanting the cactus. Use equal parts potting soil and builder’s sand. Slightly moisten the mixture before planting.
- 2
  Prepare the terra cotta pot by placing a small piece of window screen over the hole in the bottom preventing soil from escaping, but allowing excess water to drain.
- 3
  Place a few handfuls of soil mix in the new pot’s bottom.
- 4
  Fold a piece of newspaper lengthwise, making a 1-1/2 to 2-inch strip. Wrap it around the cactus, securing it with fingers at the side away from the spines.
- 5
  Hold the newspaper with one hand and dig into the pot with a small spade with the other. Squeeze the newspaper tightly around the cactus and pull it out of the pot.
- 6
  Place the cactus in the new pot, making sure it sits at the same height it was in the previous pot. Add more soil if it sits too low. Fill around the cactus with soil pouring it around the edges with a measuring cup.
- 7
  Firm soil around the cactus with a dippler or a pencil with an eraser. Sprinkle small stones around the cactus’ base making it decorative.
- 8
  Water the cactus a few days after transplanting giving the roots time to heal.

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