How do you tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus?

The difference between the three cacti is found in the shape of the leaves. The Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumgera truncata) has very pointed and claw shaped projections on the edges of the leaf. The Christmas cactus (Schlumgera bridgesti) has leaf projections which are more scalloped or tear drop shaped.

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Considering this, what is the difference between Christmas cactus Thanksgiving cactus and 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.

One may also ask, does a Christmas cactus bloom at Easter? This weeks stumper was “Why is my Christmas Cactus blooming in March?” This actually has a very simple answer: Because it’s not a Christmas Cactus – it’s an Easter Cactus. Most people see this plant and think Christmas Cactus.

Regarding this, how do you take care of Christmas cactus and Thanksgiving?

To care for your Thanksgiving cactus, allow the soil to dry out during “resting periods,” or in other words, when it is not producing blooms. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can kill the plant. Provide plenty of indirect light and room temperatures of 60 to 65 degrees F.

Are coffee grounds good for Christmas cactus?

The main benefit of using coffee grounds on Christmas cactus is, of course, it helps it bloom in season. It will give your cacti the little boost it needs and can help revive your Christmas cactus if you think it may be dying.

When should you put a Christmas cactus in the dark?

Step 3: Move the Mature Cactus to a Dark Location

In late September or early October, place the mature plant in a dark room or keep it covered (under a box or bag works fine) for at least 12 hours a day.

Do you water a Christmas cactus from the top or bottom?

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.

Should you deadhead a Christmas cactus?

While not necessary for all cacti since some cactus flowers drop from the plant once they are spent, deadheading cactus flowers can promote additional blooms and encourage growth while also tidying up the cactus. … Deadheading can be done throughout the growing season while the Christmas cactus is in bloom.

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 long do Christmas cactus live?

20 to 30 years

Will a Christmas cactus bloom more than once a year?

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. … Mine started re-blooming in February, so yes, Christmas Cactus do flower more than once a year.

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 many times a year does a Thanksgiving cactus bloom?

Whatever type of plant it is, the Thanksgiving holiday cactus is a proven winner, with blooms that last for 2 to 4 months and an easy-going nature. The only real problem with the plant is its need to be fooled in order to bloom again the next year.

Should I fertilize my Christmas cactus while it is blooming?

If you continue feeding the plant when it is not actively growing, the salt can build up in the bud, which will keep it from blooming. Never fertilize a Christmas cactus when the plant begins to flower because it can cause the buds to fall.

When should I feed my Christmas cactus?

Christmas cactus feeding takes place monthly during the growing season, generally April through October. This will keep your plants in tip-top condition to form buds and eventually that fully bloomed look in time for Christmas. If you don’t want to keep your cacti gift, you don’t necessarily need to fertilize it.

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