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 · Sep 2026

North American Hardy Cactus: Yes, You Can Grow Cactus in Minnesota

Think you can’t grow cactus in Minnesota? Think again. While our winters can be brutal, several North American cactus species are surprisingly cold hardy and can survive well below freezing. The real challenge isn’t always the cold—it’s winter moisture. In this guide, we’ll look at some of the toughest cactus species for Zone 5 and colder, how they handle Midwest winters, and what you can do to give them the best chance of thriving year after year.

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Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Growing Caudiciform Plants: How and When to Raise the Caudex

Learn how to safely raise and expose the caudex of your favorite caudiciform plants over time. This guide explains why gradual lifting creates healthier, more natural-looking specimens and covers the best techniques, pot selection, and growing tips for plants like Adenium, Fockea, Dioscorea, Stephania, and more.

Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Learn, Grow
& Create.

North American Hardy Cactus: Yes, You Can Grow Cactus in Minnesota

Growing Caudiciform Plants: How and When to Raise the Caudex

Best Cactus Soil Mix

The Biggest Myth About Watering Cactus (And How to Water Them Correctly)

Genus Spotlight: Gymnocalycium