How can you tell the difference between a Christmas cactus and a Easter cactus?

The Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) has leaf projections that are more scalloped or teardrop-shaped. The Easter Cactus (Hatiora gaertneri, formerly known as Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri) has very rounded edges centralized on the leaf. All of these three cacti are known as short-day plants.

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Moreover, what are the three types of Christmas cactus?

As I later learned from my good friend George Hochmuth, professor emeritus, University of Florida, there are actually three different holiday cacti: the Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata), the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) and the Easter cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaetneri).

Additionally, how do I know what kind of Christmas cactus I have?

Subsequently, is coffee good for Christmas cactus?

Coffee is a trusted secret that many people use to keep their Christmas cactus healthy and blooming each year. Just make sure its plain black coffee. Find this Pin and more on Christmas cactus tips by Barbra Thelen-Byrnes.

Why is my Christmas cactus limp?

Wilted or limp Christmas cactus is sometimes caused by a lack of water or too much direct sunlight. … Continue to water sparingly every few days until the soil is lightly moist. Soil that is too wet causes Christmas cactus problems too.

How do I make my Christmas cactus 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.

When should I repot my Christmas cactus?

When to Repot Christmas Cactus

Most plants are best repotted when they display new growth in spring, but Christmas cactus repotting should be done after blooming ends and the flowers have wilted in late winter or early spring. Never attempt to repot the plant while it is actively blooming.

How do you keep a Christmas cactus alive?

Temperature: Maintain an optimal climate of 65 degrees. 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. Fertilization: Apply a high-potassium fertilizer every two weeks once buds form.

How do you take care of a Christmas cactus year round?

Avoiding Problems With Christmas Cactus Health

  1. Maintain the correct light/dark schedule. …
  2. Don’t water too much. …
  3. Don’t water too little. …
  4. Make sure the plant gets enough indirect sunlight but keep it out of direct sunlight. …
  5. Keep the plant away from direct heat sources, like a fireplace or heating vent.

What does the Christmas cactus symbolize?

Officially the Christmas cactus does not have any symbolic meaning. But because the plant is not afraid to commit to a relationship and can be your companion for 20 to 30 years, we think ‘loyalty’ would be a good symbolism. … If you’re lucky, you could receive a Christmas cactus as a gift this holiday season.

How many colors do Christmas cactus come in?

The Christmas cactus (Zygocactus) is native to the South American jungles. The flowers bloom once a year and come in shades of fuchsia, yellow, salmon, pink, white, orange, red and sometimes will even have a combination of the colors. The Christmas cacti are tropical plants.

How do I prune a Christmas cactus?

All you need to do to prune a Christmas cactus is give the stems a quick twist between one of the segments. If this seems a bit harsh on your plant, you can also use a sharp knife or scissors to remove the segments.

How often should I water Christmas cactus?

How to Care for Christmas Cacti

  1. Plan to water every 2-3 weeks, but only water when the top one third of soil feels dry to the touch. …
  2. From spring through early fall, feed every 2 weeks with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. …
  3. Prune plants in late spring to encourage branching and more flowers.

How often do you feed a Christmas cactus?

Feed monthly during regular watering from late winter to late summer. Alternately, you can choose a time release balanced plant food or one just slightly higher in phosphorus once per month in mid to late summer to enhance flowering. On alternate weeks, fertilize monthly with one teaspoon per gallon (5 ml.

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