This information is of a general nature, based on the accumulated experience of a number of growers, and includes introductory material distributed by BCSS Harrow on the Hill Branch and other branches. However, the owner of this page, the BCSS and its branches cannot accept liability for any plant loss, or damage, or personal injury arising from use of this information. One of the best methods of obtaining information about growing cacti and succulents is to join your local Cactus and Succulent Society , where you will be able to obtain advice from other members, and take advantage of their experience in growing some of the more difficult plants. There are also some specialist societies for those interested in growing particular types of plants including Asclepiads, Euphorbias, Haworthias, Hoyas, Mammillarias, the Mesembryanthemum group of succulents, Peperomias and Sedums. Both types of pot are used successfully by growers, mainly as a matter of personal preference.
Plastic pots are lighter, cheaper, require less watering and are easy to keep clean.
Clay pots can provide stability for tall plants and can help to mitigate the effects of over-watering, but their accumulated weight requires strong staging. Many cacti and succulents have fibrous roots and do not require or use the full depth of a standard pot, and half pots or pans are more suitable. Putting a shallow rooted specimen in a deep pot is counter-productive as the soil below the reach of the roots will stay wet for prolonged periods after watering and may become stagnant. All pots of whatever type chosen, should have drainage holes and the bottom should be lined with several pieces of broken clay pots or large clean gravel. Finally, some cacti and succulents are native to limestone areas and often seen there growing in cracks in limestone boulders.