The Most Effective Tricks to Get Your Christmas Cactus to Bloom All Year Round
How to Care for a Christmas Cactus to Encourage Blooming
Although it does not require complicated care, a few simple precautions can help ensure that your Christmas cactus produces healthy and abundant blooms.
The plant can adapt easily to low-light conditions, but it will produce more flowers if placed in a brighter environment. Warning: Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so place the plant in a bright but sheltered spot.
Watering is very important for Christmas cactus. The plant needs frequent and generous watering during spring and summer to keep the soil moist, but without allowing water to become stagnant.
Water it regularly and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, but never let it dry out completely. Too much water can cause the roots to rot.
Christmas cactus prefers temperatures between 15 and 21°C (59 and 70°F) and moderate humidity. You can place a tray filled with water and small pebbles underneath the pot to help increase humidity around the plant.
Once the Christmas cactus has finished flowering, usually in autumn, allow the plant to complete its dormant period by reducing both watering and light. Make sure the plant receives at least 12–14 hours of darkness and is kept at a temperature between 10 and 12°C (50 and 54°F). Keep the plant away from sources of heat, such as stoves or radiators, as well as cold drafts.
With the right care, a Christmas cactus can surprise us with frequent and unexpected blooming cycles.
