How to Give Cactus for Mother's Day

This year, consider giving a Mother's Day gift that will last a while and bring joy for many years to come. Plants like cacti require little water and minimal care, yet they can live longer than many other types of houseplants. Before you give the gift of a cactus for Mother's Day, make sure the recipient has an ideal space for the plant, either in the house or in her yard.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Watering can
• Plant food

1. Evaluate, as discreetly as possible, the living space and yard of the person to whom you would like to give a cactus plant for Mother's Day. Make sure there is a partly shaded area where the plant can be placed as it adjusts to the sun. Cacti can become sunburned if exposed to very bright sunlight too quickly.

2. Buy a book on plant care that you can give your wife or mother along with the cactus plant. This will ensure that she will be able to give the cactus the attention it needs, and the book can serve as a handy reference guide for future horticultural purchases.

3. Visit a garden center or nursery to choose a cactus that will mesh with the person who will be taking care of it. A small plant that requires little water and maintenance may be best for someone who does not have a lot of gardening experience. An avid gardener would probably be able to attend to a bigger cactus with higher needs.

4. Purchase some of the tools needed to replant a cactus plant outside. This includes soil, a larger pot and potting tools. Give your wife or mother a gift basket with the cactus and all needed accessories, so she will not have to buy them.

5. Include a small, decorative, yet functional watering can and some plant food as part of your Mother's Day gift. Contrary to what most people think, cacti do need small amounts of water and nourishment on a regular basis.

Tips & Warnings

• A cactus may not be the ideal gift for the mother of small children or someone who has pets in the home. The needles are very sharp and can injure the delicate skin of kids, dogs and cats. If the woman has a green thumb and your children are still small, you may want to consider giving her another type of plant instead.