This popular, winter-flowering houseplant makes a great addition to nearly any indoor
setting. Christmas cactus is not only easy to care for but propagates easily too,
making it an exceptional candidate for holiday gift giving. Let’s look at how to
plant Christmas cactus and care for it.
How to Plant Christmas Cactus
The Christmas cactus is easily propagated by cutting a short Y-shaped segment from
the stem tips. Make certain, however, that the cutting is taken from healthy plant
foliage only. Plant the segment approximately a quarter of its length deep in slightly
sandy soil. Moisten evenly and place the cutting in a well-lit area, staying away from
any direct sunlight.
To root cuttings for new plants, cut back shoots from the tips, cut at the second joint
of each tip. The cutting should show signs of growth within a few weeks, at which
time the plant can be transferred to another container, if desired, with a looser potting
soil mix of compost, loam and sand.
How to Care for Christmas Cactus
Advice for Christmas cactus care tells us that it performs well under average home
conditions with moderate care. The Christmas cactus will adapt to low light
conditions, but the plant will produce blooms more readily if exposed to brighter light.
That being said, too much direct sunlight can burn its leaves, so keep the Christmas
cactus in an appropriate area to avoid this
Christmas cactus moisture is important as
well. The plant requires frequent and
thorough watering, during its active growth
in spring and summer, keeping the soil
slightly moist. Allow Christmas cactus
moisture levels to drop and dry out some
between watering intervals, but never
completely, and never let the plant sit in
water, as this will lead to root and stem rot.
Applying a mild houseplant fertilizer
solution every other week is also
acceptable.
When considering how to care for Christmas cactus, keep in mind it also prefers
temperatures hovering between 60 and 70 degrees F. (15-21 C.) with average to high
humidity levels. Placing a tray of pebbles filled with water beneath the Christmas
cactus container is a good way to add more humidity to the home.
Once the Christmas cactus has ceased all flowering (usually by fall), or about six to
eight weeks before you want the plant to rebloom, you should allow the plant to begin
its dormancy cycle by cutting back on Christmas cactus moisture and reducing both
light and temperature. Simply cut back the watering and make sure the plant receives
12-14 hours of darkness and average temperatures around 50-55 F. (10-12 C.).
Also,
keep the Christmas cactus away from drafty areas.
When you know how to care for Christmas cactus, this plant is not difficult to manage,
and when given proper care and placed in a suitable location, the Christmas cactus
may even surprise you with additional blooming cycles throughout the year.
Source: www.gardeningknowhow.com
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