Wow, you have a really nice selection there. I'm guessing you are from Geelong from the zone you put there. Have you bought these cacti very recently? If so, there are a few things to be careful of. Although many cacti are desert plants, this doesn't mean they like full sun, every day. It is best to have bright diffuse light, with some direct sunlight. Different cacti have different requirements, so it may help to check out www.desert-tropicals.com and find your cacti there. During winter, it is best not to give much water, and no fertiliser, as this will encourage diseases. During summer however, you can almost water them daily depending on how hot it gets, and also a slow release fertiliser added to the soil mix is a very good idea. Your soil mix should be very well draining, with lots of scoria or something similar, but still have a good amount of organic material. There are HEAPS of different mixes you can try. Be careful not to let them get too cold, as you have them outside. Don't expose them to freezing temperatures, although some can handle it just fine. I really like the yellow cactus in Picture 5, could you tell me what it is?

Hope I've helped!!
Cheers, Jon

hi jon, thanks so much for that adivice i will definatly go visit that site, some of my plants i have owned for two or so years but most i only bought last last year. the plant you were asking about is could a myrtillocactus geometrizans. yes i live in geelong, i have bought alot of my plants from the lara nursery called roraima, and i have bought others in local shop ect, also afew have been bought from ebay. hope to chat again soon. thanks:)

Yes I thought it was. Mine however, are a blueish green. I thought it strange that yours was yellow, especially because it is called a "Blue Candle." If you want other places to get cacti, Gardenworld has a large selection, but its in Keysborough (not close to you!). Also Lester Meyers has a very large selection of young cacti, and he does mail order. If you are interested, write for a catalogue at:

Lester B Meyers
44 Wamboin Street
Gilgandra
NSW 2827

Best of luck in your growing!

Jon