They also live surprisingly long—many people pass them down for generations—so if you care for it well, it can easily become your family’s holiday heirloom.
1. Show them Light
They are not your desert cacti! They don’t like strong sunlight, but they still need plenty of light for blooming energy. Position your plants in a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of bright, indirect light per day. A sheer curtain near a window works perfectly if your home gets harsh sunlight.
2. Soil-recipe
The soil recipe should be accurate. The plant grows best in loose and airy soil, and the recipe for it is 1 part potting soil, 1 part perlite, and 1 part bark. This lets the roots breathe and grow well. If you don’t have bark, adding a handful of coco chips or coarse sand also improves drainage.
3. Pouring water
These plants don’t like overcare. Mist them every few days during bud and bloom season. Once flowering ends in January, water twice a month and only when the soil feels dry. Keep them in a cool, humid spot and mist more often as the season winds down. A pebble tray under the pot adds humidity without drowning the roots.
4. Black Out
Like witches gaining power in the dark forest, the Christmas cactus forms more buds in darkness. Keep it in complete darkness for 12–14 hours at night and bright light during the day. A cupboard, box, or dark room works well. Just keep the temperature steady—too many ups and downs slow down budding.
5. Winter Shock
see continuation on next page
ADVERTISEMENT
