Re-potting 30 year old cacti!!

Discuss repotting, soil, lighting, fertilizing, watering, etc. in this category.
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CactiKatman
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Joined: Thu Sep 29, 2022 10:40 pm
Location: New Hampshire

Re-potting 30 year old cacti!!

Post by CactiKatman »

These cati belonged to my grandmother and have been on the same pots and "soil" for about 30 years. They are in desperate need of re-potting, but I don't want to mess it up. I have several cactus and succulents myself, so I'm somewhat familiar, but have not had to re-pott anything close to 30 years. Any tips on soil type, methods, advice of any kind is welcome to increase the chances of survival. Thanks!
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Steve Johnson
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Re: Re-potting 30 year old cacti!!

Post by Steve Johnson »

If you just want photos without all the blather, please visit my Flickr gallery.
My location: Los Angeles, CA (Zone 10b)
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ohugal
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Re: Re-potting 30 year old cacti!!

Post by ohugal »

I did once read not to repot old, established cacti, but don't know the exact context in which this statement was made. I think if you take your time, see the conditions are right and take into account some basic rules... I don't see a reason not to do it. For some 'tutorials', please see: viewtopic.php?t=11498 and viewtopic.php?t=41209. I don't mind corking on a plant, but your plants seem to have a lot of it.
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CactiKatman
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Joined: Thu Sep 29, 2022 10:40 pm
Location: New Hampshire

Re: Re-potting 30 year old cacti!!

Post by CactiKatman »

Thanks for the help and links! I'll definitely look into them thoroughly! The plants belonged to my grandmother who passed away a few years ago and then they have been with my parents since. Next time I drive home I'm going to grab them and bring them back with me.
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anttisepp
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Re: Re-potting 30 year old cacti!!

Post by anttisepp »

Cacti are very hardy plants. 30 year without repotting is a feat itself.
If they're still alive you have to repot them as usual cacti, but try to take away all old soil.
New pot will be as large as root system need.
Don't water about a month or more and hold them in a very sunny place.
I think that in UK you'll give them water first time not earlier than in april.
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