Germinationing Cactus and Succulent Seeds

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For best results, use a premixed cactus and succulent potting soil mix. Buy one or make your own. (We use a mix of 2/3 ground peat moss and 1/3 perlite).

Plant in shallow pots approx. 4 to 6 inches in diameter and 3 to 5 inches deep.

Opuntia and Cholla seeds, soak overnight in warm water and moisten the soil thoroughly before sowing. Keep above 85 deg F Night and Day.

Sprinkle 6 to 10 seeds on the soil surface. Sprinkle a fine layer of soil or sand on top. Expose growing area to strong indirect light.

Filtered real sunlight is most beneficial for seeds, but you can use fluorescent or grow bulbs to sprout them as well.

Seal growing area with glass or plastic, leaving plenty of room over the seeds for ventilation. If possible, maintain a soil temperature of 70-90º F.  Bottom heat from a soil heating mat is very effective.

Good moisture, good drainage, very bright light, heat and aeration are important factors for high germination rates.

Germination will take anywhere between a week to 4 months. Do not give up on your seeds unless you notice fungus. Keeping your soil consistently moist will ensure eventual success.

When seedlings sprout, spray them with a light mist often enough to keep moist. Don’t let them dry out. Continue protecting them from hot direct sun light.

For the first few weeks of growth, moisten the soil every 1-4 days. Once the plants are established, water every 1-4 weeks. (depending upon time of year, your soil and the temperature.)

When mature enough, after 4 months to 2 years, depending upon the species and the specific conditions in your garden, the new plants can be moved from the incubation chamber to indirect sun or possibly full sun in the garden or patio. Be careful not to sunburn the little plants when they are moved.

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