If using a pot, size should be large enough to comfortably accommodate the plant or plants, and deep enough to allow for drainage and for the roots to spread naturally. If the container is too small, root growth is restricted, resulting in weak growth. If the pot is too large, there is a danger of under-watering or over-watering.

Good drainage is very important, so a layer of broken crocks in the base of the pot will prevent drainage holes getting blocked. Place some soil mixture over this and remove the plant from its old pot. Rest it in the new pot so its soil level is about 1cm below the rim of the pot. Fill to this level with slightly damp soil mixture and press down to ensure there are no air pockets. After planting, no water should be given for several days, so that any broken roots can heal, preventing the risk of root rot. Leave the plant in a bright, airy position, but not in direct sunlight for several weeks.

I recommend a mixture of 2/3 potting mix and 1/3 course river sand. Not normal sand, river sand has grains about 2-5mm in size and comes from riverbeds. It can usually be found in landscape supply yards. Otherwise you can use cactus potting mixture available at most nurseries. If you live in a hot, dry climate then you can increase the amount of potting mix and decrease the amount of river sand, this increases the water absorption ability of the mixture. Experimentation is the best way to ensure the best proportion. I have also found that 5mm aggregate is a good substitute for river sand.

Contrary to popular belief cacti and succulents do need good watering for healthy growth, but only during the growing season – usually spring and summer. Some plants, like conophytum are winter growers and need water then. A good guide is to water the plant when the soil has almost dried out. Water early in the morning or late evening, never during the heat of the day. In hot and dry weather a light spray also simulates the dew they would experience in their natural environment. During autumn gradually decrease the frequency of watering and in winter, dormant period, water very minimally as over watering can cause root rot. If in doubt don’t water. In early spring gradually increase the frequency of watering.

Not all cacti and succulents are the same, some are desert varieties and some are jungle varieties, and so have different watering requirements. Desert varieties can survive without water during the dormant period, although some water prevents roots drying out. Jungle varieties should be kept slightly moist during this period.

Proper feeding enhances growth and encourages healthy flowering. I recommend a complete slow release fertilizer during early spring, one that contains trace elements.

Most cacti and succulents require plenty of light, especially the desert varieties, so a bright, sunny position is very important for good growth and flowering. Jungle varieties don’t like direct sunlight so a partially shaded position is recommended. If in doubt try a position which gets full morning sun and is shaded during the harsh afternoon sun.

By the time the cuttings arrive they will have had time for any wounds to heal and are ready to plant. Round and rosette cuttings simply need to be placed facing up on the soil mixture, if some roots already exist ensure these a buried in the soil mixture. Pad, tubular and stem cuttings should be placed so that a portion is under the soil level and the cutting can support itself. Ensure soil mixture is slightly moist, but don’t water for a few days to avoid rot. If rot does occur simply cut the rotting area off and allow wound to heal over a few days and then replant.

All should eventually root and grow into individual plants. Allow substantial root growth before transplanting into a new pot. Avoid excessive sun and heat while cutting is trying to root, as it may dry out and perish. A slightly shaded position is preferable. It is not hard to get 100% success.

Always wear good quality gloves when handling cacti and succulents, some spines are very painful and difficult to remove while some succulents, like euphorbias, have a toxic milky sap.

If you have Internet access, or a good cactus and succulent book, it is always a good idea to look up the individual plant to see if it differs in needs to most cacti and succulents. Many have different cold and frost tolerances and growing seasons. If you can provide a plant with its correct care then it will thrive.

It is not necessary to plant it straight away, but because it is very porous it can dry out quickly so keep it in the shade and fairly moist until you have time to plant it.