Caring for Christmas Cactus: Boosting Blooms, Propagation & Identifying Festive Varieties
Unlocking the Mystery of the Festive Cactus
The festive cactuses often baffle indoor gardeners. There’s a lingering myth that these plants are either fussy bloomers or seem to have their own calendar for blossoming.
Many people nostalgically recall a family member, often a grandmother, who had one of these plants that seemed to have been with the family for generations. It’s a cherished tradition to share cuttings from these beloved plants with loved ones. Yet, somehow, it appears that only Grandma had the magic touch to make it burst into bloom.
However, cracking the code to these plants is not as tough as it seems. Once you’re in the know, you’ll be treated to a spectacular show of flowers year after year. You might even find yourself sharing your own cuttings with loved ones. (And no, you don’t need to earn the title of ‘grandma’ first.)
A frequent grouse from festive cactus caregivers is the unpredictable or seemingly ‘off-schedule’ blooming.
The plot thickens when we realize that the so-called ‘Christmas cactus’ encompasses three distinct cacti, all hailing from the Schlumbergera lineage. They might seem identical to the untrained eye, but a closer look reveals subtle differences.
Based on their blooming patterns, they’ve earned their holiday-themed nicknames:
Thanksgiving Cactus – Schlumbergera truncata
Christmas Cactus – Schlumbergera buckleyi
Easter Cactus – Schlumbergera gaertneri
The Thanksgiving cactus is the usual suspect you’ll spot in nurseries or home and garden stores come November. It’s simply because these plants align best with growers’ schedules to display buds around the holiday season.
We’ll delve deeper into identifying each of these festive cacti shortly. But first, let’s unearth the secrets to keeping these plants thriving.
All the holiday cacti might have distinct identities, but their care guidelines are surprisingly consistent.
Contrary to their ‘cactus’ label, these plants lean more towards tropical inclinations. Originating from Brazil, they are often found nestled in tree nooks or perched on rugged terrains. These natural dwelling spots offer clues about their preferred environments.
Nurturing the Festive Cactuses: Tips for Lush Blooms and Vibrant Health
Positioning and Climate
A hallmark of festive cactuses is their affinity for bright, yet indirect, sunlight. Placing them by an east-facing window works wonders. They relish the warmth similar to our comfort zone, favoring temperatures of 60-75°F.
For those residing in regions where the mercury doesn’t dip below 50°F, these cactuses can thrive outdoors. Ideally, sheltered areas like porches or beneath trees, which shield them from the harsh sun, are best. When autumn hints at cooler days ahead, ensure you bring them indoors before temperatures plummet under 50°F to protect them from chill and frost.
Hydration Habits
Contrary to their desert counterparts, festive cactuses have tropical tastes. When hydrating them, soak the soil thoroughly and then let it dry out before the next watering session.
It’s vital to ensure their roots aren’t submerged in water as they can be susceptible to root rot. Should you have a saucer under the pot, discard any stagnant water that accumulates.
These holiday-loving plants have a penchant for humidity. If your locale doesn’t naturally provide it, you can simulate a moist environment by placing the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles. The trick is to ensure the pot doesn’t touch the water while the evaporating moisture envelops the plant in its embrace.
Growing Medium
In the wild, these cactuses thrive not in typical soil, but in natural nooks cradling organic detritus. A potting mix specially formulated for cacti or succulents, which offers superior drainage, is ideal.
Despite their expansive growth, they appreciate a cozy space for their roots. Repotting is only necessary every few years, and even then, opt for a pot just a size up.
Nutritional Needs
Post-bloom, as the plant unfurls new leaf sections, nourish it with a quality houseplant fertilizer every two weeks. During its blooming phase, monthly feeding suffices.
The Blooming Conundrum
Their mesmerizing blossoms come in hues of pink, orange, white, and more. But inducing these blooms requires a bit of finesse.
After a dormancy stretch roughly four weeks prior to their respective blooming seasons, these cactuses awaken to flower. Mimic natural conditions by ensuring longer, cooler nights. Shield them from light for 12-14 hours daily using a cloth or box if needed. Meanwhile, maintain temperatures of 50-55°F for bud formation.
Once the buds start peeking, return the cactus to its regular spot.
However, during the budding phase, it’s pivotal to offer consistent care, avoiding abrupt shifts in location