How Often Do You Water a Christmas Cactus? 12 Critical Care Tips

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Christmas cacti are not difficult to care for. But, it is important not to forget that they require more frequent watering than other species of cacti. Be careful not to overwater the plant, as it can cause damage. Keep reading to learn how often to water a Christmas cactus.

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The Christmas cactus, scientifically known as Schlumbergera bridgesii, is a popular houseplant due to its vibrant colors and ease of care. It is a member of the cactus family, with succulent leaves that resemble a leafy vine. Its striking pink, purple, or white blooms appear during the winter months, making it a festive addition to any home.

Overall, the Christmas Cactus is an ideal houseplant for those looking for a festive addition to their home. Its vibrant blooms and easy care make it a popular choice for any home.

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When it comes to holiday cacti, there are three prominent types that often adorn our homes during festive seasons.

While each species has its unique characteristics, for simplicity’s sake, we will collectively refer to them as “Christmas cacti” throughout this article due to their similar care requirements.

Plan to water your Christmas cactus every two to three weeks, but only when the top one-third of the soil is dry. Soak the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes, and place a tray underneath the pot to catch any excess. Discard any leftover water after 10-15 minutes, and be sure to give your Christmas cactus plenty of water when it is flowering.

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When picking a container for your Christmas cactus, make sure it has a hole in the bottom for water to drain. A succulent potting mix is suitable for the plant as long as it is capable of draining water properly.

When it comes to potting your Christmas cactus, it is crucial to create an environment that closely mimics its natural habitat. These cacti thrive on the forest floor, so providing them with acidic and well-draining soils is essential for their overall health and growth. To achieve this ideal soil composition, use a combination of a cactus mix along with perlite, vermiculite, and orchid bark.

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From the spring to early autumn, fertilize your Christmas cactus every two weeks with a balanced houseplant food. During the fall and winter months, fertilize it monthly to promote blooming.

Prune the plant in late spring to encourage growth and more flowers. Cut off a few sections of the stem and place the cut pieces in moist potting soil, which will help them root in a few weeks. Free plants make the best gifts!

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If you want to get your Christmas cactus to bloom, make sure it isn’t exposed to too much light or too high temperatures. The blooming of this plant is triggered by the cooler weather and longer nights of fall, so following these tips can help you get the desired results!

Christmas cacti are generally safe for both cats and dogs and not toxic, according to the ASPCA.

The sharp thorns on the cacti can be a hazard, however, and can cause irritation if a pet were to come in contact with them.

©Hooker, William Jackson, SirBlackwood, William, publisher; Cadell, Thomas, publisher; Swan, Joseph, engraver, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

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