%20(1)_edited.png)
The Christmas cactus, scientifically known as Schlumbergera bridgesii, is a popular houseplant that brings a vibrant splash of color to your home during the holiday season. However; there are actually 3 types of holiday cacti and also include the Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) and the Eater cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri). This tropical cactus blooms beautiful flowers in shades of red, pink, white, and even purple. Despite its name and desert lineage, the Christmas cactus thrives in cooler temperatures and requires specific care to flourish. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information on how to care for your Christmas cactus and ensure its long-lasting health.
Understanding Your Christmas Cactus
Before diving into the specifics of caring for your Christmas cactus, it's essential to understand its unique characteristics. Unlike their desert-dwelling cousins, Christmas cacti are native to Brazilian rainforests. They are epiphytes that grow naturally in tree branches' nooks and crannies where they receive limited sunlight and have access to plenty of rainwater.
Christmas cacti are known for their segmented leaves and stunning flowers that bloom from late November through January. They are long-lived plants that can survive for up to 30 years with proper care.
Ideal Conditions for Your Christmas Cactus
Lighting: Despite being a type of cactus, the Christmas cactus does not require intense light exposure. Instead, it prefers bright but indirect light. Placing your cactus near a north or east-facing window is ideal, as it will receive enough light without being exposed to direct sunlight, which can cause sunburn. If you notice any discoloration or wilting on your plant's leaves, consider moving it to a shadier spot.
Temperature: The Christmas cactus thrives in cooler temperatures ranging from 15 to 21 degrees Celsius (60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit). It is important to avoid exposing your cactus to drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations, as it can negatively impact its health and blooming. In terms of humidity, the Christmas cactus prefers moderate levels. While it can tolerate drier conditions, it benefits from occasional misting or placing a tray of water nearby to increase the humidity around the plant.
Watering: Unlike its desert-dwelling relatives, the Christmas cactus requires regular and consistent watering. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Feeding Your Christmas Cactus
Your Christmas cactus will benefit from regular feeding during its growing season. Use a balanced houseplant fertiliser every month from late winter through early fall (generally April to October). Ensure to follow the package instructions for dilution rates as over-fertilising can damage your plant. As a general rule of thumb fertilise your Christmas cactus using an equal NPK fertiliser (e.g. 20:20:20) and dilute to 50% strength.
Encouraging Blooming in Your Christmas Cactus
The blooming of a Christmas cactus is undoubtedly its most spectacular feature. To encourage your plant to produce flowers, you need to mimic its natural habitat conditions.
Light Control: Around six weeks before you want your cactus to bloom, begin limiting its light exposure to about 8-10 hours per day (aiming for 12 hours of darkness).
Temperature Control: Simultaneously, reduce the temperature around your plant to about 12 degrees Celsius at night. This combination of shorter days and cooler temperatures will trigger your Christmas cactus into producing buds.
Watering: Reduce watering during this period but do not let the plant completely dry out. Once buds start appearing, increase light exposure and resume regular (limited watering). With these steps, you should be able to enjoy a spectacular bloom around Christmas time!
Conclusion
Caring for a Christmas cactus may seem daunting initially due to its specific needs compared to other houseplants. However, once you understand these requirements and provide them accordingly, you'll find that these plants are relatively low-maintenance and rewarding with their stunning blooms.
Remember that every plant is unique and may require slight adjustments in care depending on its environment and health condition. With patience and attention, your Christmas cactus can become a long-lasting part of your home decor that brings joy each holiday season!
Q&A
When to stop watering Christmas cactus?
Reduce watering schedule 6-8 weeks before you want your cactus to bloom (e.g. October/November).
When should you put Christmas cactus in the dark?
Where to buy Christmas cactus uk?
Why are the leaves on my Christmas cactus limp?
Don't miss out – discover more thought-provoking reads and enhance your experience with our other engaging blogs.
Comments