Christmas Cacti are popular houseplants with spectacular holiday blooms. Here are nine suggestions for keeping your Christmas Cactus healthy and growing:
Christmas Cacti enjoy indirect light. Place them in filtered light to avoid leaf burn. East or north-facing windows are best.
1
Provide Indirect Light
The optimal temperature for these cacti is 60-70°F (15-21°C). Avoid draughts, heating vents, and air conditioners since unexpected temperature swings can stress plants.
2
Maintain Consistent Temperature
Water your Christmas Cactus when the top inch of soil feels dry. They like somewhat damp but not waterlogged. Water more in spring and summer and less in fall
Make sure your Christmas Cactus' potting mix drains well. A cacti or succulent mix or peat, perlite, and pine bark blend helps drain and avoid root rot.
4
Use Well-Draining Soil
A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer should be used every 4-6 weeks to your Christmas Cactus throughout spring and summer. Reduce or cease fertilizing in fall
5
Fertilize Monthly
Christmas Cacti like dampness. Use a humidity tray or room humidifier to keep the plant hydrated. Also, spraying often can assist, especially in dry winter.
6
Provide Humidity
For six weeks before blooming, give your cactus cooler temps (50-60°F or 10-15°C) and less light. It replicates winter conditions that cause flowering.
7
Encourage Blooming
To maintain its shape and encourage new development, trim your Christmas Cactus after blooming. Pinch back stems to encourage branching and fullness.