Christmas Cactus: How to grow and maintain it so that it lasts a long time

Christmas Cactus: How to grow and maintain it so that it lasts a long time (Page 2 ) | November 27, 2023

When to water Christmas cacti?

The Christmas cactus is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, and therefore prefers a humid climate. For this reason, it is necessary to pay special attention to irrigation, both in summer and in winter. In winter it is advisable to water it regularly, preventing the saucer from absorbing water, but keeping the soil moist. In summer, proceed in the same way, with the possibility of spraying a little water on the leaves. In summer, the best time to water the Christmas cactus is at night.

It is important to avoid stagnation of water and water regularly, but not excessively, especially during flowering. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to plant death. The flowering of the plant can sometimes last from December to February. In any case, once flowering is over, the risks can be reduced.

The Christmas cactus likes soils with an acidic pH and, if possible, containing peat. The use of natural fertilizers during the flowering period is optional to ensure plant nutrition. Fertilization should be stopped when the flowers drop. If you want to fertilize, it is better to do it in spring and summer when physiological growth is underway.

4- How to propagate and multiply your Christmas cactus?

Propagation by cuttings

If you want to propagate your cactus it is quite possible to do it at home using last year’s stems that have dried for a few days before planting. Proceed as follows:

Take a stem of the plant about 10 – 15 cm long.
Set the cutting aside for at least 48 hours.
Once it has dried, you can plant it with a mixture of sand and bury it 3 cm deep.
Propagation by hand pollination