That means cool temperatures around 50-65 degrees, and no light (not even artificial). You can take it outdoors during the summer, too, but bring it back in before it gets too cold.įor about six weeks prior to blooming, the holiday cactus requires between 12-14 hours of dark to set buds. To make sure your cactus blooms well, fertilize monthly between June and August with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half-strength. The shape of the leaves (which are actually stems) also vary slightly, with Thanksgiving cacti having serrated edges and Christmas cacti featuring more rounded edges. Easter cacti flower in-you guessed it-late winter to early spring. Christmas cacti, or Schlumbergera bridgesii, bloom about a month later. Thanksgiving cacti, or Schlumbergera truncata, bloom in late fall. There are about six different species, and most get their names for the time of year when they bloom. Getty Images What's the difference between a Christmas cactus and a Thanksgiving cactus? If you want to give the cutting an extra boost, dip the base of it in rooting hormone-though often the cutting will do just fine without this step. If your plant gets too leggy or branches start dropping off because it can't support its own weight, prune it by cutting off a piece where two stem segments join.įun fact: You can turn this piece into its own plant! Stick it into the soil, place the pot in bright light, and keep the soil moist. Use well-draining potting soil, and make sure the pot has drainage holes. Your Christmas cactus won't need to be re-potted for a few years because they actually bloom better when "pot bound." When you do replant, choose a pot that's only a tiny bit larger than the last one (maybe an inch or two more in diameter). Once you bring your new cactus home, you'll want to leave it in its pot. How to Plant and Propagate a Christmas Cactus Pests and diseases to watch out for: Fungus gnats, root rotġ.USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11 for outdoor plants otherwise, it's a houseplant.Exposure: Bright indirect light, never direct sunlight.
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