Soil and Potting
The perfect soil for Christmas cactus is one that’s rich in nutrients, but not too acidic. Instead of using lime or bone meal, use a mixture of two parts good potting mix with an added third part coarse builder’s sand and one part peat moss to keep its roots happy!
To make sure your plant has enough room to grow, use pots that are at least two inches wider than the diameter of its roots.
Fill the pot with one half of the rim with soil and carefully set it into place; then press down firmly on top until it is evenly distributed.
A Christmas cactus needs bright and sunny conditions in order to thrive, so place the plant away from direct sunlight. Try not move it if you can help it! If possible choose an east or west window for your best location.
Christmas Cactus Thrives on Neglect
The number of questions asked about Christmas cactus is more amazing considering that the plant thrives on neglect. Weeks without watering won’t harm it, and in fact too much care could be dangerous to your plants health!
The late spring is the best time to repot your plant. Just transfer it into a pot one size larger than its current container and set in some shade outdoors for summer!
New leaf growth starts in the springtime. When it does you can start fertilizing your house plant about every two weeks with a good liquid fertilizer, following directions on package for proper use!
Time For a Nap
In early fall when nights start to get cool, bring the plant inside and give it a 30-day nap. Place it in a location with indirect light and reduce watering for one month.
Afterwards, gradually expose it outside and give it full sunlight, increase water supply until you reach the amount of water you were giving it initially while it was outdoors.
The Christmas cactus is a tricky plant. If you don’t give it enough light and warmth, the buds will start budding early before they’re ready- or they will stop blooming!
Avoid Strong Artificial Light
Artificial lights will stunt the growth of your plants. If you want to turn on any artificial lighting near a bloomer, cover it with newspapers or sheets and place something heavy on top like books so that no light shines through.
It’s true that cacti don’t need as much water when their buds are forming, so decrease watering at this time. If you don’t give them an artificial light, and if they are kept in the dark, they’ll be able to flower beautifully around Christmas time!
Share By Grafting
The plant’s versatility knows no bounds. It can be grown on its own roots, or those who want a more permanent solution and don’t mind getting their hands dirty with some technical work may graft (propagate) Pereskia and opuntias together to create standards from which you’ll never need to buy another Christmas cactus again!
Handling the crablike joints with care will help you avoid having them break. Lay pieces of it in a shady spot until they are hard, then plant them well-drained soil or sand so there’s little chance for rot to take place.
The pagoda-like flowers will brighten up the dull winter months as a special reward for all that hard work you put into taking care of it.
