Succulents and cacti may conjure images of the desert, but they grow naturally from coast to coast and, as long as they get plenty of direct sun, live happily in containers almost anywhere.

Plants: The selection of cacti and succulents is generally plentiful in warmer climates; if your choice is limited to the ubiquitous sempervivums (commonly called hens and chicks), try the California Cactus Center (www.cactuscenter.com), which sells plants by mail-order. It also offers advice on tending cacti and succulents at 626-795-2788.

Planting Tips: Many succulents produce spectacular blooms, but their real value is in their sculptural leaves and subtle variations in color. And since cacti and succulents tend to be exotic looking, it doesn't take much skill to compose an attractive mix. They usually look best when potted one plant to a container, with a balance between spiky plants and more softly rounded shapes. When summer is over, they can be moved indoors to a south- or east-facing window.

Containers: Because cacti and succulents are less thirsty than most plants, the container is less critical. Terra-cotta, which is porous and lets water evaporate quickly, is ideal. Each container must provide drainage (this is essential no matter what you're planting). If it doesn't have a hole, either drill one into the bottom or use the pot as a decorative sleeve, by placing an inch of gravel in the bottom and putting a smaller pot (with a drainage hole) inside it.

Soil: Cacti and succulents do not like wet feet and will rot if their roots stay damp. Choose a premixed soilless medium specially formulated for cacti and succulents. In the West, look for Whitney Farms Cactus Mix (at garden centers and nurseries), or try Schultz Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix (go to www.schultz.com and click on "Store Finder"). Add rocks or sand to the top of the container to camouflage perlite (which aerates the mix) that migrates to the surface of the potting mix.

Watering: Though you want to water well and consistently in summer, one of the benefits of these plants is self-sufficiency. If you'll be away for a few weeks, water thoroughly before you go. They won't even know you've been gone. In winter, cacti and succulents are dormant and need little or no water. The best rule of thumb about watering is, When in doubt, don't.

Fertilizer: Choose a low-nitrogen fertilizer to prevent weak and leggy growth. Try Schultz Cactus Plus Liquid Plant Food, available at garden centers.