What is the difference between a succulent and a cactus and how to care for each one?

What's the difference between a succulent and a cactus? Many people group them together. However, this distinction is crucial for care.

Both adapt to dry environments, where water is a scarce resource.

But their survival strategies differ. Understanding this is key. This distinction goes far beyond appearance. It determines cultivation requirements.

Understanding the specifics is essential so the plant can thrive.

The Nature of Adaptation: Cacti and Succulents

The main difference between succulent and cactus is in its definition. Every cactus is a succulent.

But not every succulent is a cactus. The Cactaceae family is a group, a subset of the larger succulent family. Cacti have unique adaptations.

They are specialized for arid environments. Their main characteristic is their areolas.

These small structures are found on cacti, from which spines sprout. Many succulents also have spines. But they don't sprout from areoles.

Succulents use their leaves and stems to store water efficiently.

This makes them more drought-tolerant. Like a water battery. Succulents are a vast group, including genera like Echeveria and Sedum.

Cacti are specialized succulents. Created by evolution.

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The Telltale Signs: How to Identify Them

Look closely at the plant. Look for the areoles.

They look like little tufts of wool. Or little raised dots.

This is where the thorns come from, which serve as protection.

An Opuntia cactus, for example, has areoles. They bear its glochids. These tiny spines are irritating and difficult to remove from the skin.

Compare it to a succulent Echeveria. Its leaves are fleshy and firm.

It has no areolas. Its spines are absent or less prominent. difference between succulent and cactus manifests itself. Especially in morphology.

Cacti are a defined botanical family, with approximately 1,750 species.

This is according to recent data on Cactaceae, reflecting its diversity. The diversity of the genus Mammillaria. It has over 200 species.

While the succulent family is vast, with thousands of species.

Specific Care for Each Type

Caring for succulents and cacti requires attention. The main mistake is overwatering.

Both have similar watering needs, but with important nuances. The general rule is "less is more." Watering should be spaced out.

Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. This prevents root rot.

Imagine the root as a sponge. It needs to dry before being watered again.

In summer, water more frequently, every 10 to 15 days. In winter, water more frequently. Watering can be done monthly or bimonthly.

Humidity and temperature affect the watering process. Adjust the frequency to suit the conditions.

Watering should be deep and abundant. Excess water should drain away. Cacti and succulents require light, but their needs vary.

Most cacti require full sun. They need 6 to 8 hours of direct light.

They thrive in sunny environments, like a desert.

Many succulents prefer indirect light. Some burn in strong sunlight. Haworthia, for example, prefers shade. It burns in direct light.

Others, like Echeveria, tolerate more sun, but require gradual adaptation.

Sudden exposure causes burns, damaging the leaves. Nutrition also has its own specificities. Use a specific fertilizer.

Apply fertilizer in spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing.

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Care Comparison Chart

Soil and Pot Selection

Soil is critical. It must be well-drained. Use a cactus-specific mix. Or make your own.

Add coarse sand and perlite to ensure fast drainage. Soggy soil is deadly. Roots rot quickly.

Choose a pot with a drainage hole. This is non-negotiable. A clay pot is a great choice. It allows the soil to breathe.

The porosity of the clay evaporates water, helping to keep the soil dry.

Plastic pots also work well, but they require more attention when watering.

Don't forget ventilation. Air needs to circulate. The choice of pot and soil directly affects the success of the crop.

THE difference between succulent and cactus in care is subtle. But important.

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Differentiating and Thriving: A Practical Approach

A practical example helps to understand. Imagine a Saguaro cactus. It has large spines and areoles. It is a cactus and, therefore, a succulent.

Now, imagine a succulent Aloe Vera. It has no areolas. Its leaves are succulent, filled with water gel.

She's not a cactus. She's a succulent.

THE difference between succulent and cactus becomes clear. It's like the difference between succulent and cactus of the desert.

One is a broad category. The other is a specialized group. They share the ability to store water. But the way they do so is unique.

Understand this difference between succulent and cactus is the first step. And the key to success.

You become a conscious grower, not just a plant owner.

After all, why be superficial? When depth brings success?

Learning about these plants is an investment. In your pleasure of growing them. And in their health, which is reflected in their beauty.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• My succulent is wilting. What could it be? It could be either too little or too much water. Check the soil. If it's dry, water it. If it's wet, let it dry. Overwatering is the most common cause of death.
• Can I use regular garden soil? No. Regular soil retains too much water and can kill your plants. Use a specialized mix, or prepare one with coarse sand and perlite to improve drainage.
• Why are my succulent's leaves falling off? Leaves that fall off easily usually indicate overwatering. The plant is suffering from root rot. Reduce watering frequency.
• Is it normal for my cactus to grow slowly? Yes. Most cacti are very slow-growing. This is an adaptation to low-nutrient environments. Patience is a virtue when growing cacti.