Cactus and succulents have become incredibly popular among plant lovers, with their striking appearance and low-maintenance nature.

But are cacti and succulents the same? While they share some similarities, there are important differences between the two. In this blog, we’ll explore what sets cactus and succulents apart, how they’re related, and most importantly, how you can take care of them effectively to keep them thriving in your home or garden. 

Are Cactus and Succulents the Same?

You may wonder what's the difference between a cactus and a succulent.

Cacti are a type of succulent, but not all succulents are cacti.

Confused? Let’s break it down.

A Succulent is a broad category of plants that store water in their thick, fleshy leaves or stems. This water-storing ability allows succulents to survive in arid environments where water is scarce. Succulents come in many shapes, sizes, and colors and can belong to various plant families.

A Cactus is a specific type of succulent that belongs to the plant family Cactaceae. What sets cacti apart from other succulents is that they usually have small, round structures called areoles, from which spines, flowers, or new branches grow. Cacti are particularly well-adapted to extremely dry conditions, often with spines instead of leaves to reduce water loss through leaf surface area.

While both cacti and succulents are well-suited for low-maintenance gardening, it's important to note that specific care requirements may vary depending on the species. Research the specific needs of your plants to ensure optimal growth and health.

Common Features of Cactus and Succulents

Despite the differences, cacti and succulents share several characteristics that make them popular for indoor and outdoor gardens:

1. Water Storage: Both cactus and succulents store water in their fleshy stems, leaves, or roots, making them drought-resistant and perfect for busy or forgetful plant parents.

2. Low Maintenance: These plants require minimal care compared to other types of houseplants. They can survive on less water and thrive in a variety of light conditions.

3. Adaptability: Cacti and succulents are extremely adaptable to different environments, making them great for both indoor settings and outdoor gardens.

How to Care for Cactus and Succulents

Though they’re relatively low-maintenance, cactus and succulents still need proper care to thrive. Here’s how you can take care of them effectively:

1. Light Requirements

• Cactus: Cacti generally prefer bright, direct sunlight and do best when placed in sunny locations such as windowsills, balconies, or outdoor spots with plenty of light.

• Succulents: Most succulents thrive in bright, indirect light, but they can also handle direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon. If kept indoors, place them near a window that gets plenty of sunlight.

Pro Tip: Watch out for signs of too little or too much light. If your succulent or cactus is stretching or leaning towards the light, it may not be getting enough sun. On the other hand, sunburnt spots can indicate that they’re receiving too much direct sunlight.

2. Watering

Watering is often where new plant parents go wrong. Both cacti and succulents are drought-tolerant, meaning they don’t need frequent watering. Overwatering is a common issue and can lead to root rot.

• Cactus: Water your cactus sparingly. A good rule of thumb is to water once the soil has completely dried out. In hotter months (spring and summer), you may need to water more frequently, but during the colder months (fall and winter), reduce watering even further.

• Succulents: Like cacti, succulents should only be watered when the soil is completely dry. Be careful not to leave water sitting in the rosette (for succulents like echeveria or sempervivum), as it can cause rot.

Pro Tip: Water deeply but infrequently. When you water, make sure the water flows through the drainage holes, allowing the roots to absorb the moisture and prevent waterlogging. 

3. Soil and Potting

Both cactus and succulents need well-draining soil. Standard potting soil retains too much moisture, which can lead to root rot.

• Cactus and Succulents: Use a cactus or succulent-specific potting mix, which is designed to drain excess water quickly. You can also create your own mix by adding sand or perlite to regular potting soil to improve drainage.

• Pots: Always use pots with drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom and causing root rot. Terracotta pots are a great option as they allow moisture to evaporate more quickly than plastic or ceramic pots.

Pro Tip: Avoid planting your cactus or succulents in pots without drainage holes unless you have experience managing watering carefully. Excess moisture can be fatal for these drought-loving plants.

4. Temperature and Humidity

Cacti and succulents are used to dry, warm environments, making them perfect for homes with low humidity.

• Cactus: Most cacti thrive in warm temperatures and low humidity. They prefer temperatures ranging from 18-26°C during the day, but can tolerate cooler temperatures at night.

• Succulents: Succulents enjoy similar temperature ranges but are slightly more adaptable to varying humidity levels, though they still prefer a dry environment.

Pro Tip: Avoid placing cacti or succulents near drafty windows or heating vents, as extreme temperature changes can stress them out.

5. Fertilizing

While cactus and succulents don’t need a lot of fertilizing, they can benefit from occasional feeding during their growing season (spring and summer).

• Cactus: Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer formulated for cacti or succulents, diluted to half strength, every month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter.

• Succulents: Like cacti, succulents can be fed with a balanced, diluted fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to weak growth.

Pro Tip: Always follow the instructions on your fertilizer package and reduce the amount for succulents and cacti since they require fewer nutrients than other houseplants.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Even though cactus and succulents are low-maintenance, they can still run into issues. Here are a few common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

1. Overwatering: The biggest killer of cacti and succulents is too much water. If the plant’s leaves become mushy, or if the cactus starts to rot at the base, reduce watering and check the soil for moisture. Consider repotting the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.

2. Stretching (Etiolation): If your plant is stretching or growing long and leggy, it’s not getting enough light. Move it to a brighter spot or use a grow light to supplement natural light.

3. Sunburn: Too much direct sunlight can burn your plant, causing brown or bleached spots on the leaves. Move it to a location with bright, indirect sunlight to prevent further damage.

4. Pest Infestations: Cacti and succulents can occasionally attract pests like mealybugs or aphids. Wipe down the plant with rubbing alcohol or neem oil to remove the pests, and keep the plant isolated until the infestation is under control.

Cacti and succulents are perfect for those who want a bit of nature at home. They require minimal care. Though they share many characteristics, remember that cacti are a specific type of succulent with unique care needs. By understanding their light, watering, and soil requirements, you can keep your cactus and succulent collection thriving for years to come.

If you’re ready to start your own collection, explore our store for a variety of beautiful cactus and succulent options, along with the right pots, soil, and accessories to keep them healthy.

Happy planting!

For more plant care tips, stay tuned to our blog. If you have any specific questions or need personalized recommendations, don’t hesitate to reach out to our plant experts.