Christmas Cactus

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Christmas cactus produce a tubular bloom and are easy to care for. They like to be watered more frequently than typical cactus. In nature they live in tree crevices. 

light

Christmas cactus prefers bright indirect light. It can tolerate a few hours of direct light like in an east facing window. To much direct sun will cause the leaves to look pale or bleached. In summer Christmas cactus can be put in a shady spot outdoors. Do not put Christmas cactus in direct light outdoors.

Watering

Christmas cactus prefers more water than typical cactus, but doesn't like to stay wet. The soak and dry method is perfect for these cactus. Water thoroughly until water is draining out the drainage holes in the pot. Then let the top 1" of soil dry out before watering again. Christmas cactus also like humidity. Placing them in a bathroom where it can get humidity daily or use a pebble tray under your Christmas cactus pot. Fertilize your Christmas cactus every 2 weeks between spring and early fall. Fertilize once a month during late fall and winter to encourage successful blooming. 

Propagation

Christmas cactus will propagate easily from a segment of 3 leaves. You can water propagate them by placing them in a jar with water covering the bottom leaf 1/4 of the way. You can also propagate them in soil by planting until the bottom 1/4 of the leaf is covered. Mist the soil or water lightly until roots develop or you see new growth. Christmas cactus should be pruned to encourage branching and new flowers. You can propagate anything you prune from your plant. 

Blooming

Christmas cactus get there name due to the time they tend to bloom. They typically bloom early to mid winter. They need to receive less light and lower temperatures to help them bloom. They need 14 hours of darkness and temperatures between 50-60 degrees. If you do not have an area to put your Christmas cactus in that will meet the light requirements needed for blooming you can cover it at night. You can also place your Christmas cactus outside for a few days when temperatures are around 45 degrees to kick start the blooming process.

Soil 

Christmas cactus require a well draining soil. You can plant Christmas cactus in regular succulent and cacti soil. It can also be potted in bromeliads soil. If you want to mix your own soil make sure it is well draining and lightweight. 

Repotting 

Make sure your pot has drainage holes. Christmas cactus are prone to root rot if they sit in too wet of soil for too long. If your Christmas cactus needs to be replanted do it after your plant is done blooming for the season. Do not rush to repot your Christmas cactus they like to be a little root bound. Frequently repotting can damage your plant. Typically you shouldn't have to repot your Christmas cactus more than once every three years.  Repot your Christmas cactus into a pot that is 1-2" larger than its current pot.