Today I saw something that made me angry… An article on Facebook with a “super fertilizer” for the Christmas cactus, so it will bloom more now at Christmas. It was supposed to apply now in September. Well this upset me because we CANNOT fertilize the plant at this time, it will only weaken it. Taking this into consideration, I decided to write this article.
Fertilizing the plant at the wrong time is just one of the mistakes that people tend to make (I’ve made this mistake myself, and killed my plant), so I decided to put together some of the most common mistakes when caring for the plant.
Let’s explore these pitfalls and how to prevent them.
Are You Making These Mistakes with Your Christmas Cactus?
Are You Fertilizing in September? STOP!
One of the most common mistakes is fertilizing the Christmas cactus too late in the season.
By September, the plant is preparing for dormancy, and continuing to feed it during this time can disrupt its natural cycle.
The best time to fertilize your Christmas cactus is in the spring and early summer, during its active growth phase.
By late summer, stop fertilizing to allow the plant to rest and prepare for its blooming phase.
The best time to fertilize a Christmas cactus is February or March when the plant begins its active growth period
How Much Water Do You Give to the Plant?
Overwatering is one of the biggest killers of Christmas cacti. Unlike desert cacti, Christmas cacti prefer moist conditions but should never be left sitting in water.
The key is to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. If the soil feels dry an inch down, it’s time to water.
Avoid watering on a schedule and instead pay attention to the soil’s moisture level. Too much water can lead to root rot, a common cause of plant death.
Are You Providing Enough Humidity?
Christmas cacti thrive in more humid conditions than most people realize.
A common mistake is placing the plant in dry, indoor environments, especially during the winter when heating systems lower humidity levels.
To boost humidity, you can mist the plant occasionally or place it on a humidity tray (a shallow tray filled with water and pebbles).
This extra moisture will help mimic the cactus’s native tropical environment.
Is Your Plant Getting the Right Light?
Improper lighting is another factor that can stunt the growth of your Christmas cactus.
While these plants prefer bright, indirect light, many people make the mistake of placing them in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
On the other hand, too little light can result in weak growth and poor blooming. Ideally, place your Christmas cactus near a window with filtered light or in a room with plenty of indirect sunlight.
Do You Skip the Dormancy Period?
Christmas cacti need a period of dormancy to trigger their blooming cycle.
This is a phase where the plant slows its growth and conserves energy.
A mistake many people make is not giving the plant enough time to rest. To encourage dormancy, reduce watering and keep the plant in a cooler spot with less light for about six to eight weeks in the fall.
Once this rest period is over, you’ll likely see the development of flower buds.
Are You Using the Wrong Soil?
Another pitfall is planting your Christmas cactus in the wrong type of soil. Christmas cacti require well-draining soil that mimics their natural environment.
Heavy, compact soils can retain too much moisture, leading to root rot. Use a cactus or succulent mix, or create your own by mixing potting soil with sand or perlite to ensure good drainage.
Do You Move the Plant Around Too Much?
Christmas cacti are sensitive to changes in their environment, especially when they are forming buds. A common mistake is frequently moving the plant from one location to another. This can cause the plant to drop its buds before they bloom.
Try to keep your cactus in one consistent location with stable lighting and temperature conditions, particularly during its blooming season.
Is the Temperature Right?
Christmas cacti thrive in temperatures between 60-70°F during the day and prefer cooler nights.
A big mistake is exposing the plant to sudden temperature changes or drafts, which can cause stress.
Keep it away from doors, windows, or heat vents where it might experience fluctuating temperatures. The right temperature balance is key to a happy, blooming cactus.
Final Words…
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your Christmas cactus stays healthy and produces vibrant blooms each holiday season.
With proper care, including attention to watering, lighting, and dormancy, your Christmas cactus will thrive and become a lasting part of your home decor for years to come.
Why does it show you have scissors and cutting the cactus? Are we supposed to cut the cactus
Hi Shirley!
The scissors are ONLY for trimming off dead or damaged segments of the Christmas cactus, which can help promote healthy growth. You don’t need to cut a healthy cactus, but occasional trimming of older, damaged parts can help it thrive! 🌵✂️