In general, water a Christmas cactus when the top inch or 2 of soil is dry. To help increase the humidity around your plant, fill the pot saucer with pebbles and add water to just below the tops of the pebbles (the pot shouldn’t be sitting directly in water). The air will become more humid as the water evaporates.
Beside this, is a Christmas cactus really a cactus?
The plant is not a true cactus and is not quite as drought tolerant as the name infers. However, it is a succulent plant and can store a reasonable quantity of water in the leaves. Christmas cacti are not only popular holiday gift plants, but they are also the subject of frequent debate among gardeners.
Spring: Fertilize after flowering. Summer: Move outdoors to a shady area. Maintain water and fertilizer while the plant is actively growing. You can encourage flowering by stopping fertilizer application at the end of summer.
Secondly, what triggers a Christmas cactus to bloom?
Christmas cacti produce flowers in a cool, environment-short day cycle. To initiate the production of flower buds, there needs to be at least eight days of 16 hours of dark and eight hours of light each day. Wherever the plant is placed, do not turn on the lights at night, even for a short period of time.
How long do Christmas cactus live?
Christmas cactus are everywhere during the holiday season, with good reason. They’re gorgeous blooming succulents that can live up to 100 years! That’s right! This plant, when properly cared for, will survive for decades.
Should you water a Christmas cactus when it is blooming?
A lack of water and dramatic temperature swings can cause flower buds to drop more rapidly. … Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist while your plant is blooming, misting it frequently. Light: Place the cactus in an east-facing window for moderate light and some direct sun.
How many times will a Christmas cactus bloom?
Christmas Cactus are extremely popular when November and December roll around. I happen to like them even when they’re not in bloom and think they make fine houseplants. But wait, did you know that they can repeat flower? Mine started re-blooming in February, so yes, Christmas Cactus do flower more than once a year.
Is a Christmas cactus a houseplant?
The Christmas cactus is a very popular houseplant—and for good reason! When they bloom, they produce colorful, tubular flowers in pink or lilac colors. Their beautiful flowers, long bloom time, and easy care requirements make them a wonderful plant.
