Hello! I live in Chicago, IL in an apartment complex. I have large floor-to-ceiling windows, facing south. The windows are also fully sealed and unable to be opened, which regulates temperature very well. Even in the winter time, my small apartment stays a comfortable 70 degrees F.
Because I live in the city, and Chicago tends to be cloudy throughout the winter, I'm not quite sure if I'm getting enough light for my cactus just by sitting them by the window. I see that they're casting a soft shadow during the day. I've never had issues growing cactus indoors and they look healthy enough, but I have noticed that they almost never grow much larger except a tiny bit during the height of summer. They do flower occasionally in beautiful, brightly colored little blooms, but a couple of the cacti only flower a few bulbs at a time rather than a full crown.
Would the purchase of an artificial grow lamp be worthwhile here, or am I overthinking it? If I purchased an artificial grow lamp, should I increase the amount of watering? Currently for the winter time, I water them once a month. They are potted in well-draining soil with a 50/50 mixture of commercial succulent soil + gravel.
Thank you for the help!
