PHK Ceramics · Knowledge Hub
Learn, Grow
& Create.
A growing library of guides on cactus, succulents, bonsai, soil and handmade pottery — written in the studio, tested on the bench.
Featured · Aug 2026
Why Are Mesembs So Hard to Care For?
Mesembs are some of the most fascinating—and sometimes frustrating—succulents you can grow. From Lithops to Conophytum, these unusual plants have evolved around very specific cycles of water, light, and dormancy. Learn why mesembs can be difficult to grow and how understanding their natural habits can make them much easier to care for.
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Aug 2026 · 5 min read
Adeniums: Growing the Desert Rose
Adeniums, or Desert Roses, are tropical plants that thrive on heat, sunlight, and water during their active growing season. Learn where they come from, how to care for them, and how oversized pots can help develop massive caudexes.
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Aug 2026 · 5 min read
Hand Built Pottery- Why I love it
Discover why I choose to hand build my pottery and how inspiration from rocks, landscapes, and nature shapes each piece. From rugged textures to organic patterns, every pot is made to complement the unique character of cactus, succulents, caudex plants, and bonsai.
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Aug 2026 · 5 min read
The Art and Function of Top Dressing Cactus & Succulents
Top dressing can transform a simple potted cactus or succulent into a miniature landscape. Learn how to choose, mix, crush, and sift rocks, gravel, sand, clay, and other materials to create beautiful habitat-inspired plant displays.
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Aug 2026 · 5 min read
The Art of Staging Plants: Turning a Pot Into a Landscape
Plant staging is more than simply putting a plant in a pot. Learn how pottery, rocks, soil, orientation, and negative space can transform a cactus, succulent, bonsai, or caudex plant into a living landscape.
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Aug 2026 · 5 min read
Cycads: Ancient Plants for the Modern Collector
Cycads are ancient, fascinating plants with an unmistakable prehistoric character. Explore Zamia integrifolia, the Florida coontie, and learn about its care, caudex, container growing, bonsai pots, and relationship with the Atala butterfly.
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Aug 2026 · 5 min read
Preparing a Cactus for a Shallow Bonsai Pot
Thinking about putting a cactus in a shallow pot? Learn how to prepare your cactus, handle the roots, choose the right soil and container, and create a beautiful bonsai-style display without compromising the health of the plant.
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Aug 2026 · 5 min read
Choosing the Right Bonsai Pot for Cactus, Succulents & Caudex Plants
Bonsai pots aren't just for trees. Discover how the right ceramic pot can enhance cactus, succulents, and caudex plants while promoting healthy growth and creating stunning, natural displays.
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Aug 2026 · 5 min read
Genus Spotlight: Haworthia
Haworthia are beloved for their striking leaf patterns, compact size, and easy-care nature. Discover popular species, learn how to grow them successfully, and find out why these South African succulents have become favorites among collectors and beginners alike.
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Aug 2026 · 5 min read
Genus Spotlight: Thelocactus
Thelocactus are sculptural desert cacti prized for their dramatic spines, striking ribs, and oversized flowers. Discover what makes this Mexican genus unique, explore popular species, and learn how to grow these collector favorites with confidence.
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