Christmas Cactus
Written by Debby Walters | December 16, 2016 |
How do the professionals get Christmas Cactus into bloom for the holiday season?
They keep the plants in cool greenhouses where temperatures average 50 degrees. The plants must receive 12 to 14 hours of darkness each day, and be watered sparingly. One of the most frustrating things that can happen is that buds drop off the plant. Bud drop can be caused by over-watering, lack of humidity, or insufficient light.
After The Christmas holiday season, the Christmas cactus should be given about a 30 day rest. Place it in a cool room and provide limited water. Don’t worry if it loses a few leaves or joints, and appears weak during this rest period.
Repotting
The best time for repotting a cactus is in February, March or April. Keep in mind the plant will flower best if it’s kept in a container where it’s pot-bound. If your Christmas cactus is given proper care and is placed in the right location, it’s not unusual for it to flower several times throughout the year.