Plant watering guide › Succulents & cacti
How often to water cactus
Cactaceae
Spring–autumn 21 days
Winter 32 days
In a bright room, water your cactus about every 21 days from spring to autumn and every 32 days in winter. Check that the top of the soil is dry first.
By season and light
| Season | Bright spot | Lower light |
|---|---|---|
| Spring to autumn (Apr–Oct) | every 21 days | every 27 days |
| November and March | every 26 days | every 34 days |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | every 32 days | every 41 days |
These are the starting intervals Trellis uses when you add cactus. Growth slows in winter, so the interval is stretched 1.5× in Dec–Feb and 1.25× in November and March, and 1.3× in lower light (seasons are flipped in the Southern Hemisphere). Pot size and room temperature change things, so adjust to how fast the soil dries.
Where to put it
By a window (lots of sun)
A sunny window
Seasonal notes
Winter
- In winter it barely needs water — let it rest
Tips for your cactus
- Too much water is a cactus’s biggest enemy
- Spring and autumn are growing seasons — water well then
- Too little light makes the tip grow thin
- Wait a few days after repotting before watering
Trellis
Add your cactus and Trellis reminds you on watering day
- Starts at every 21 days. You can change it any time
- Invite family and see who watered what (free)
- Keep growth photos and share them as cards
Free to start. Pro is a one-time purchase, not a subscription.
