Saguaro cactus, Carnegiea Gigantean

If you have ever visited the Sonoran Desert, you may never forget the astonishing sight of a 40-feet giant Saguaro cactus standing tall in the landscape. The Saguaro cactus (Carnegiea Gigantean) is an enormous and slow-growing plant that can live for up to 200 years.

Saguaro cactus can only thrive in well-drained soil that doesn’t hold for too long.  The plant does well when it receives low levels of water and prolonged exposure to light.

Since it is used to growing in relatively hot conditions, this plant won’t survive freezing temperatures. Make sure you bring your containerized plants indoors as soon as temperatures fall below 60^oF.

Water your plant at least once every 10 to 14 days and ensure the soil dries out completely between watering sessions. Check the soil to four inches deep with your fingers just to be sure that it is completely dry.

If you feel even the slightest moisture, wait for a few more days before watering. During winter, stop watering until temperatures start rising above 60^oF.

Keep your plant in a brightly lit spot but maintain low humidity. Consider taking your Saguaro outdoors during spring and summer so that it can enjoy the sunlight. Consider keeping it out for several hours a day then bring it back indoors during the night.