Hi I am trying to get a collection going, I am am on a disability pension and thought this a good hobbie to get into as I am stuck at home a fair bit, so if anyone can help me out that would be great.

I take note of your situation but that is a big ask from a brand new member. Show some interest in the forum and contribute....then the plants will come

HN

Thanks for the warm welcome, I will try and contribute, but not sure I have a lot to offer as I am just starting out. Have been reading through trying to learn a little.

Try starting some cacti from seed, it is challenging but very rewarding. Seeds can be found cheap or for free

After reading through the forums I have decided to give that a go. Have posted a message asking for advice on that in the forums. Thanks

Welcome, what types of cacti take your interest Eric?

Thanks for the Welcome. At this stage Mammillaria and Ferocatus have caught my eye.

There some cool South American cacti that might be a bit easier to grow in your area to start off with. Trichocereus for example will do fine outside all year round. They're impossible to kill here. Touch wood.
If it's not too much trouble and your ever in the city some time, visit queen vic market. There is an awesome cacti stall there that has a good variety.
I started from going to nurseries and buying anything that made my jaw drop.

Hellonasty is right about coming onto a forum immediately asking for plants. So hang about and learn some stuff in the mean time.

Thanks are there seeds available for this type? I looked on cactus -seeds .com but was unable to find any.

Eric if you are able to get to Croydon Market on a Sunday or Monday there are a couple of stalls which often have a small number of cacti for sale for just a few dollars, I purchased a little echinopsis for $1 just recently. Unfortunately most are unmarked and often the stall owners aren't sure what they are either, but if you want some cheap cacti to get started it would be worth a visit.

Good luck, I have only just started collecting cacti myself and am finding it a very interesting hobby, it's amazing how much there is to learn.

Thanks I have an appointment at Maroondah on Monday so I will call past the maket and see what they have.

Most local markets will have numerous people selling cacti, i found most my collection at markets.
Also, Big W, Bunnings and etc will all have Mammillaria and usually Ferocactus if they stock Cacti + Succulents.

Thanks for the replies, I have limited funds being on a pension so I think growing from seed will be my best option and will give me a challenge.

i have some pups or offsprings of mammilaria and copiapoa id be happy to share if u are able to pay for the postage. (im also a pensioner).
things are a little hectic for me now so it will take me a while to get them together but if youre interested pm me in a few weeks.