The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera) is a popular houseplant, but many people make the mistake of treating it like a typical cactus. It should not be neglected, left without water for long periods, or placed in a room with very dry air. With proper care, it can delight you with a stunning bouquet every New Year — for 15 to 20 years! To achieve this, just follow a few simple rules.
🌿 How to Care for a Christmas Cactus
-
Location matters: Christmas cacti don’t do well on south-facing or west-facing windows, as too much light can cause the tips of the stems to die off.
-
Temperature: The room should be kept at no less than 15°C (59°F).
-
Fresh air: In summer, move the plant to a balcony or terrace — it needs fresh air.
-
Humidity: Mist it with water daily.
-
Budding period: The Christmas cactus is sensitive during bud formation. Don’t move or rotate the pot at this time.
✅ Important Care Tips
-
In spring, feed it once a month using a balanced flower fertilizer — but only half the recommended dose.
-
In summer, when stems grow rapidly, fertilize twice a month.
-
Stop fertilizing in September to allow the plant to rest.
-
Never cut off unwanted stems — instead, twist them off by hand to shape the plant. This promotes better blooming and a neat look.
-
Repotting should be done in late February, after the plant has completely finished blooming.
-
Young plants: Repot every year.
-
Mature plants: Repot every 5 years.
-
Use wide, shallow pots.
-
The drainage layer should take up one-third of the pot.
-
🌱 Soil Mix for Christmas Cactus
see continuation on next page
ADVERTISEMENT
