These last few days of perfect springtime weather has the Hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus) excited for blooms. This little gem (pictured) lives in a very sandy, well-drained south facing rock garden in downtown Reno. It's been living here for almost a decade. It usually blooms each year around the first of June, but this year it's a about a week and a half late. You can guess why.

Drycreek has a great selection of cold hardy cacti this year. These little hedgehogs usually go very quickly. They require no maintenance after becoming established and each spring the flowers are definitely something to look forward to. Hedgehog cactus plants are great for displaying in containers, and because they are slow growers, you can start out with a small sized pot. Just make sure they get full sun and a well-draining sandy soil. Most hedgehog cactus plants tend to stay very compact with their stems growing no more than a foot high. If you're lucky enough to live a long life with this cactus as your companion, you will get to see your little cactus develop into a fully mature mound consisting of many stems and many amazing flowers from year to year.

For potting cacti, it's easy to create a good soil match without having to purchase expensive mixes from the big box stores. All you need is some regular potting soil and some pumice. Mix the two with a ratio of about one third pumice to two thirds potting soil. Doing it yourself can save a lot of money, especially if growing cacti becomes a hobby.

To say the least, the Hedgehog cactus is a spectacular addition to any xeric landscaping plan.

In designing your landscape don't forget to think about a winter sunbathing spot. You will probably need more than one so you can move from your morning recliner to your afternoon recliner as the sun moves. Your spot needs to be against a south wall or fence for good heat radiation. Get your down jacket and your baseball cap or visor to keep the sun out of your eyes. Settle in to your recliner, wooden bench or even a dry patch of decomposed granite and enjoy a good nap. Importantly, make these places private. This is a peaceful refuge, a holy place for religious experiences, a place for soothing hangovers and hiding from family responsibilities. Also if your neighbor sees you stretched out on the ground they may think you are dead or injured and you don't want to wake up to some dude administering CPR on you.