Each and every miniature garden has its own personality. Some are filled with miniature trees that mimic the big branches and green leaves of life-size parks and gardens. Others assemble mini succulents or colorful flowers.

1. Consider Cacti for the Fairy Garden
Florence Blum
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2. Each and every miniature garden has its own personality. Some are filled with
miniature trees that mimic the big branches and green leaves of life-size parks and
gardens. Others assemble mini succulents or colorful flowers. This summer, I have
been experimenting with a unique miniature plant that used to make me nervous:
the cactus! Cacti, even on a miniature scale, can be intimidating with their strange
shapes and spiky spines. But, when properly planted and cared for, they actually
make some of the most beautiful and creative miniature gardens. Keep reading to
find out how to plant a cactus container garden.

3. Location
DIY cactus miniature gardens can be created indoors or out, depending on your local
climate. In the American Southwest, an outdoor cactus garden works well, but
elsewhere on the continent, you will want to keep your cactus garden indoors. Cacti
need sunshine and very dry weather. Pick out a windowsill or sunny spot in your home
that is not too drafty or cool. That is where you will want to place your cactus garden,
which will need to remain frost-free in order to survive. For desert cacti, aim for a
location that receives about four hours of direct sunlight each day. For tropical cacti
(such as Christmas cactus) you can provide slightly less light.

4. Container
Unlike other miniature plants, cacti have shallow roots, and they are slow growers. Be
on the lookout for a short, shallow container, such as a glass bowl, wide vase, or small
basket. It does not need to be very deep. At the bottom, you should start by spreading a
thin layer of gravel. Then add porous, sandy, well-draining soil, such as a cactus-specific
potting mix. The container can be filled almost to the top, leaving an inch or two
between the top of the soil and the top rim of the container.

5. Cactus Care
Note: Thick gardening gloves and tongs with silicone tips are hugely helpful when
planting a cactus garden! Be careful and work slowly to avoid getting stuck by spines.
Whether you plant on impressive cactus or a whole family of interesting and colorful
cacti, your miniature plants will be the start of a wonderful fairy garden. Large rocks,
glass pebbles, fences, stairs, and fairy furniture all make fun additions to any cactus
garden. Pair with succulents and colorful foliage for a mixed container. After planting
and securing any fairy houses or miniature accessories, I like to add an additional layer
of small pebbles on the top of the soil to complete the look.

6. Overwatering should be avoided. Water your cactus garden once after planting. Then
wait until the soil dries out completely before watering again. Most prickly plants should
be watered about once a week in the spring and summer. Growth slows in the cooler
months. To ensure even growth, rotate your dish garden a quarter-turn at least once a
month. Otherwise, they will grow towards the light source, resulting in wavy or bent
miniature plants.

7. Ready to get planting? When it comes to cactus fairy gardens, the possibilities are many.
Do not worry too much about themes. While it can be fun to create a Wild West or
Beach-themed miniature garden full of cacti, you can also allow the miniature plants to
hold their own. Any guest who is lucky enough to glimpse your cactus-filled miniature
garden will be delighted by these miniature plants. And I bet you will have fun growing
these low-maintenance beautifies.
Happy Gardening!

8. Miniature Gardening offers a variety of accessories, fairies, garden tools & dollhouse
furniture to create enchanting miniature landscapes for winter container plants or your
yard. Story telling and imaginary fairy garden plants from 'Miniature Gardening' bring the
playful kid out in all of us. Filled with intrigue and mystique each little miniature garden
scene you create is a snapshot of such a dream.
Thank you for spending your precious time in reading this article!