Does Cactus Need Direct Sunlight? Your Answer Is Here

Cactus are famous for their hardy nature. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and thrive in regions with little water. 

So, does cactus need direct sunlight? We will investigate the importance of light for this plant. Scroll down to learn more!

Does Cactus Need Direct Sunlight?

The answer is yes. Cactus need direct sunlight to survive and grow but take care not to place them in direct sunlight since the intense light may cause the cactus to turn yellow.

Like most plants, these succulent cactus need sunshine to grow. This lighting source is vital for photosynthesis. Without the sun, cactus can’t thrive, resulting in stunted growth and poor health. However, too much daylight can also be harmful to your succulent, especially the ones that are native to shady areas.

How Much Direct Sunlight Does A Cactus Need?

The amount of sunshine your plant needs varies depending on the specific type. Most cacti require at least 4 hours of this lighting source to thrive. However, some species prefer partial shade or filtered daylight. It’s essential to research the specific needs of succulent or cacti to ensure it gets the right amount.

Read more: Do Cacti Produce Oxygen? Scientists Answer

What Kind Of Light Does Cactus Need?

Indirect light is less intense than direct daylight and is ideal for these plants. It allows them to photosynthesize and grow without risking damage from too much direct light. The best way to do this is to place the plant near a window that receives indirect light. You can also use artificial light if you don’t have a window that provides enough indirect lighting sources. 

LED grow lights are another excellent option for your plants. They provide the right light with a full spectrum, and you can adjust them to the correct intensity. 

What The Signs Your Cactus Is Getting Too Much Sunlight?

One of the most obvious signs that your plants get too much daylight is sunburn. Sunburn on a succulent resembles discolored or brown spots on the plant’s surface. If your plant shows signs of sunburn, you must move it to a shadier location immediately. Another sign that your succulents get too much sun is that it’s turning yellow. It is a sign of stress and can lead to the death of the plant if not addressed.

Read more: Can You Use Cactus Soil For Bonsai? Benefits & Drawbacks

Can You Keep Cactus Outside? 

The answer is yes! Keeping these plants outside has several advantages, but you should keep a few things in mind. 

First, you should choose a suitable location. Cacti require plenty of brightness, so place them in an area that receives at least 4 hours of daylight daily. Besides, cactus plants are susceptible to root rot, so ensure the soil can drain excess water. To achieve this, you can mix sand or perlite into the soil to improve drainage. Also, while they can survive in drought conditions, they still require occasional watering. During the growing season, water your succulents once a week. During winter, you can reduce watering to once every 2 to 3 weeks.

Conclusion

Cactus will require a lot of sunlight to grow properly. However, it’s worth noting that not all cacti require daylight to grow. The sun amounts your plants need depends on the species. Thus, you must research and care for your cacti and provide enough amount of light to ensure its health and longevity.