They do germinate faster then you would think, but in a few months it will slow down dramatically. Some cactus can take forever to germinate. I usually don't put holes in the seran wrap. Also in the beginning perlite is not necessary, and I microwave the soil first. Just to kill anything that could be lurking in the soil. Keep an eye out for mold or fungus. Since they've germinated every once in awhile give them some air.

Since there are holes in the seran wrap keep an eye on them and make sure the soil doesn't dry out. They should be moist during this time. I would be careful of the sun through the window because they can get burned pretty easily if one is not careful.

I started some cactus seeds last August. That was a little late in the season, but they're fine. When they hit about the 6 month mark I start to deprive them of a little water. During this time I also transplant them to a more suitable container. I don't let them go dry for a week, but I let the soil dry out for a day or two at the most.

Dont be suprised if they turn red. That's usually because they're getting too much light or not enough water. Mine did that in the winter because I think they got a little too cold.

I enjoy planting little cactus seeds:). I'm about to rot n some errands so if I think of anything else I will let you know.

Hi Kara! Thank you for all these tips ~ I'm happy to hear your lil' cacti are doing well :) Hope they all turn out healthy and strong

Unfortunately I had no idea about the microwave bit so I didn't do it this time. I'll keep that in mind for future seeds. Will definitely also look out for any mold/fungus. On another note, how long would you suggest I keep them under the seran wrap? Maybe a few months and then I slowly expose them to life without the wrap?

Also regarding the sun/burning, should I move them a bit further from the window so the light won't be as strong? I heard they like a bit of heat so I'm just trying to find a nice balance for them.

If they are happy right now in the amount of sun they're getting, then leave em be. Just keep an eye out because summer sun is coming:).

Yes, in a few months you can take the wrap off. Sounds weird, but you will kind of know when it's time. Keep them moist not wet. Then at the 6 month mark you can transplant them. Let them start going through periods of drought at this point. Not for long. Just let the soil dry out for a day or two. Since you live in Minnesota you may want to get a heat pad for the winter. Just keep them away from any ice cold windows. You also may need a little growing light for the winter, but idk your set up:). Here's a a couple links on that are helpful and informative. Just click on the green words;).

This Yourube channel has tons of informative cactus stuff. I like to watch her. Just click on her playlist and she has videos for how to cactus seedlings. Also, how to overwinter cactus seedlings. She's from Ireland:) and has been growing succulents/cactus for over 20 years.
Desert plants of Avalon

This is a YouTube video on how to separate the cactus when it's time. There are some other informative videos about cacti. This guy also does videos on snakes. So if snakes freak you out, you may not want to search thru his videos. The link I put below is just purely a how to separate the seedlings:). So no snakes:). I personally don't get freaked out by snakes. I think they're pretty, but if there were spiders/tarantulas I would jump outta my skin;)!

Cactus seedlings

I've been growing some too. I microwave the container and soil first, and boil the water I'm using, and keep them sealed tightly for 3 months or longer. My problem is always the transitioning phase - I've sunburned two batches of cactus babies so far. One batch recovered - the jury is still out on the second batch.

I'm obsessed with getting my favorite cactus to produce seeds. When something blooms, I take its picture, and then try to hand-pollinate. :)