About 5 years ago, Sheridan Cleland of MyPDFscripts wrote the below article on his blog. Soon after, the site disappeared. I wanted to keep the memory alive, because these practices by the studios have not changed. They have only become worse.
Cacti are one of my favorite types of plants to grow inside all year and outside in summer. Unfortunately, the ambient air tends to stay moist during most seasons, a condition which makes cacti unhappy. Cactus potting soil can enhance drainage, increase evaporation and provide the dry conditions that cacti favor.
Soil. Plant Christmas cactus in a mixture of 2 parts general-purpose potting soil and 1 part clean sand. The mixture will ensure that the plant drains properly, as Christmas cactus will rot in soggy soil. Alternatively, plant Christmas cactus in a good quality commercial potting soil for succulents or cactus.atering. Poke your finger into the soil to determine whether the Christmas cactus needs to be watered. Water the plant whenever the top inch of the potting mixture feels dry to the touch. Water thoroughly, then let the extra water drain through the hole in the container.