Succulent and Cacti Care

Basic Guide to Growing Succulents and Cacti in the Pacific Northwest (PNW)

Growing succulents and cacti in the Pacific Northwest can be a rewarding experience if you understand their needs and make some adaptations for the region’s unique climate. While these plants are typically associated with warm, dry environments, they can thrive in the PNW with the right care. Here’s your go-to guide for growing succulents and cacti successfully in our cooler, wetter climate.

1. Understanding the Climate Challenge in the PNW

The PNW’s cool, rainy winters and moderate summers can pose a challenge for succulents and cacti, which generally prefer dry, sunny, and warm conditions. However, by selecting the right varieties and providing optimal care, you can successfully grow these plants.

  • Winter Moisture: Succulents and cacti are especially sensitive to overwatering in winter. In our region, the heavy winter rain can easily lead to rot if proper drainage and shelter are not provided.
  • Cool Summers: While summer temperatures are usually mild, some succulent varieties prefer hotter, sunnier conditions to grow at their best.

To ensure success, you’ll need to simulate a more arid, well-drained environment while still accommodating the PNW’s cooler temperatures.

2. Selecting the Right Succulents and Cacti for the PNW

Some succulents and cacti are more tolerant of cool, damp conditions than others. Here are a few varieties that tend to do well in the PNW:

Succulents

  • Sedum (Stonecrop)
    • Why they work: These hardy succulents are well-suited for the PNW’s climate. Sedums like “Autumn Joy” or “Dragon’s Blood” are especially resilient and can handle cooler temperatures and occasional moisture.
    • Growing tips: Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade.
  • Sempervivum (Hens and Chicks)
    • Why they work: These small, rosette-forming succulents are ideal for the PNW. They can tolerate some winter moisture and are very hardy.
    • Growing tips: Plant in well-draining soil with full sun or partial shade. They are perfect for rock gardens or containers.
  • Echeveria
    • Why they work: Known for their striking rosette shapes and colors, echeverias thrive in the summer heat, but they need to be protected from excessive winter moisture.
    • Growing tips: Plant in pots or raised beds with excellent drainage, and bring indoors during the wet winter months if grown outside.

Cacti

  • Opuntia (Prickly Pear Cactus)
    • Why they work: Some varieties of prickly pear cactus are cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 10°F, making them a good choice for the PNW.
    • Growing tips: Prickly pears need full sun and well-drained soil. Ensure winter protection from rain, such as using a covered patio or greenhouse.
  • Echinocactus (Barrel Cactus)
    • Why they work: While not as hardy as other cacti, certain species like Echinocactus grusonii (Golden Barrel Cactus) can survive in milder PNW climates if kept dry during the winter months.
    • Growing tips: Place in a sunny location with excellent drainage. Consider growing them in pots so they can be moved to a sheltered area during the wet season.

3. Location and Environment

Outdoor Growing

  • Choose a Sunny Spot: Succulents and cacti need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. Find a sunny location, such as a south-facing wall, patio, or balcony. For best results, consider using containers so you can move them around to follow the sun.
  • Good Drainage: Well-drained soil is essential for succulent and cactus health. Amend your garden bed with sand, perlite, or gravel to improve drainage, or opt for raised beds or containers with drainage holes.
  • Winter Protection: During the wet PNW winters, protect your succulents and cacti from excessive moisture. Consider moving them into a greenhouse or under an eaves for shelter. If you keep them outdoors, a layer of gravel or rocks around the base can help with drainage and keep them dry.

Indoor Growing

  • Bright, Indirect Light: Succulents and cacti can grow well indoors as long as they get plenty of light. Place them near a south- or west-facing window, or use grow lights to supplement their needs during the darker winter months.
  • Temperature: While most succulents and cacti enjoy warmth, make sure they’re not exposed to drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations. A consistent indoor temperature between 60°F-85°F is ideal.

4. Soil and Potting

Soil

Succulents and cacti prefer sandy, well-drained soil. You can use a pre-made cactus or succulent mix or make your own by combining:

  • 1 part potting soil
  • 1 part sand or perlite
  • 1 part cactus mix or fine gravel

This soil will provide the proper drainage and prevent water from sitting around the roots, which could lead to rot.

Containers

When growing in containers, always use pots with drainage holes. Terracotta pots are an excellent choice as they allow moisture to evaporate quickly, reducing the risk of root rot.

  • Tip: For extra drainage, add a layer of small pebbles or gravel at the bottom of the pot before adding soil.

5. Watering and Care

Watering Succulents and Cacti in the PNW

  • Water Sparingly: In the PNW, where rainfall is abundant, you’ll need to be careful not to overwater. During the rainy season (fall and winter), most succulents and cacti go dormant and need little to no watering. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
  • Check the Soil: The best way to know when to water is by feeling the soil. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil—if it’s dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, wait a few more days.
  • Watering During Summer: In the warmer summer months, you may need to water more frequently, but always ensure the water drains freely from the pot. Cacti and succulents are more drought-tolerant than most plants, so don’t worry about watering them too much.

Winter Care

  • Dry is Key: During the wet season, prevent your plants from getting too much water. If grown outdoors, consider moving them to a dry, sheltered area or a greenhouse. If they’re in pots, you can bring them indoors to a bright spot.
  • Temperature Considerations: Some succulents and cacti are sensitive to frost. Bring them inside or use frost covers if temperatures are expected to drop below freezing.

6. Fertilizing

Succulents and cacti don’t require heavy feeding, but they do appreciate occasional nutrients during their active growing season (spring and summer).

  • Use a Balanced Fertilizer: A diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer or a specialized cactus fertilizer is ideal. Apply once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
  • Avoid Fertilizing in Winter: Succulents and cacti are generally dormant in winter and don’t need fertilizer during this time.

7. Common Issues and Troubleshooting

  • Overwatering: The most common issue in the PNW is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Always ensure pots have drainage and that you allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
  • Pests: While succulents and cacti are generally pest-resistant, aphids, mealybugs, and scale can occasionally be a problem. Check plants regularly and remove pests manually or with insecticidal soap.
  • Frost Damage: Cold-hardy succulents can tolerate light frost, but most cacti and succulents need to be protected from freezing temperatures.

In Conclusion

With the right care, succulents and cacti can thrive in the Pacific Northwest. Choose the right varieties, provide good drainage, and protect your plants from excessive moisture during the rainy months. Whether grown indoors or outdoors, these drought-tolerant beauties will add interest and texture to your garden year-round. Happy gardening!