A few, such as Christmas cactus and the orchid cacti will burn in hot, bright light typical of summers in the southwest. The Christmas cactus often fails to flower if it does not get a short day, long night treatment coupled with cool temperatures in early fall. Cacti should be fertilized lightly in spring and summer and little or no fertilizer applied in fall and winter. Nitrogen is especially problematic when given in excess. Cacti have insect pests as do other plants.
Mealy bugs seem especially fond of cacti and can destroy the plants.
Over watering or poorly drained containers can lead to rot of the roots. Stems may be attacked by organisms that cause areas to decay. Cacti need very little grooming. Cacti are propagated by seeds, separation of pups or offsets and stem cuttings. Allowing stem cuttings to cure a few days in air before sticking in the propagation bed will reduce rot.