Whether your flowering succulent cactus is grown in a pot or the ground, it requires similar care. Cacti prefer well-draining soil, partial sun and cooler night temperatures.
1
Place your cactus in a sunny window or outdoors in a partially shaded area until it becomes accustomed to the sun. Cacti prefer cooler nighttime temperatures, so a window sill or patio is an ideal place.
The holiday cacti, Easter cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri), Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) and Christmas cactus (S. bridgesii), should be placed in an area with partial shade that cools to 55 to 65 degrees F at night. If the temperature only drops to 60 F, move the cacti to complete darkness for 12 hours each night for six weeks during the fall to encourage blooming.
2
Grow succulents in equal parts potting soil and sand or well-draining cactus mix.
3
Fertilize succulents with 5-10-5 fertilizer once in the spring, summer and fall. Holiday cacti should receive 10-10-10 fertilizer monthly in the spring and summer but 5-10-5 in the fall while the flowers are forming. Don't fertilize cacti in the winter.
4
Water succulents deeply until water drains through the pot. If they're indoors, once a month can be enough. Outdoors, you may need to water them every three days depending on how quickly the soil dries out. Test the soil by pushing a pencil down through the soil to the bottom of the pot. If it comes out clean, water the cactus. Holiday cacti need more water than other types, but reduce watering after they bloom. They prefer high humidity, so spray them with water in a spray bottle occasionally during dry periods.
5
Reduce watering in the winter. Water succulents just enough to prevent shrinking.
6
Remove scale or mealybugs from succulents with cotton swabs dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
Things You Will Need
5-10-5 fertilizer
10-10-10 fertilizer (optional)
Potting soil and sand (optional)
Well-draining cactus mix (optional)
Watering can
Spray bottle
Cotton swabs
Isopropyl alcohol
