Christmas cacti are popular houseplants known for their vibrant blooms that typically appear around the holiday season.
Here's a guide on how to care for a Christmas cactus and get it to bloom around the holidays.
Light: Christmas cacti prefer bright, indirect light. A location near a window with filtered sunlight is ideal. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight.
Temperature: An environment with temperatures between 60-70°F is ideal. Avoid exposing the plant to drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow any excess water to drain away. Reduce watering slightly during the dormant period after blooming.
Humidity: Provide humidity by placing a tray filled with water and pebbles near the plant or by using a humidifier.
Soil: Repot the plant every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container using a potting mix formulated for orchids (slightly acidic).
Light: Christmas cacti prefer bright, indirect light. A location near a window with filtered sunlight is ideal. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight.
Temperature: An environment with temperatures between 60-70°F is ideal. Avoid exposing the plant to drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow any excess water to drain away. Reduce watering slightly during the dormant period after blooming.
Humidity: Provide humidity by placing a tray filled with water and pebbles near the plant or by using a humidifier.
Soil: Repot the plant every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container using a potting mix formulated for orchids (slightly acidic).
To encourage blooming provide 12-14 hours of darkness per day for about 6 weeks leading up to the desired bloom time. Once buds form, return the plant to its regular light conditions. Christmas cacti typically have a dormant period after blooming. During this time, reduce watering and avoid fertilizing to allow the plant to rest.
Fertilization: Feed your Christmas cactus every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant period (fall and early winter).
Pruning: Pinch back segments after blooming to encourage a bushier growth habit. Remove any damaged or leggy stems.