Christmas cactus care is essential for keeping these vibrant plants healthy and blooming during the holiday season. Native to the rainforests of Brazil, Christmas cacti (Schlumbergera) are unique among succulents because they are either epiphytic—growing on tree branches—or lithophytic—growing on rocks. With six different species, four hybrids, and countless cultivars. Typically, if you’ve got one that blooms on Thanksgiving, it’s S. x buckleyi, and on Christmas, it’s S. truncata. Proper care ensures their bright blooms appear right when you want them.
Christmas Cactus Traditions and Stories
Although it seems that there may not be any more of a connection with Christmas than the fact that the growers in Europe have purposely cultivated these beauties to bloom during Christmas time, here are a couple of stories that tie these houseplants to the holiday season.
The Bolivian Missionary and the Christmas Cactus
One story suggests that the blooms of the Christmas cactus to a Bolivian missionary. At Christmas time, the missionary was becoming uncertain that the locals were hearing his message. As he prayed in front of a bare altar, the villagers came carrying beautiful, blooming boughs of Christmas cactus that they had collected from the jungle to decorate the chapel. While this is a lovely story, it doesn’t quite work. Schlumbergera are found in Bolivia and they would be blooming in May rather than December in the southern hemisphere.
Southern Hemisphere Holiday Cactus Traditions
In the Southern hemisphere, folks who don’t have access to evergreens decorate the Christmas cactus instead of a tree. This tradition can be verified, but it is not actually the Schlumbergera that they decorate.
How to Make Your Christmas Cactus Bloom
Christmas cactus care goes beyond keeping the plant alive—it’s about encouraging those vibrant blooms that brighten the holiday season. The brightly colored flowers stand out beautifully against the plant’s succulent foliage, creating a festive touch in any home.
To encourage blooming, follow a few simple steps:
- Provide Proper Light: Place your cactus in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light may prevent blooms.
- Control Temperature: These plants respond to cooler night temperatures. In the fall, bring your cactus to a slightly cooler room (around 60–65°F) to trigger the bloom cycle.
- Water Strategically: Reduce watering slightly in the weeks leading up to the blooming period, then resume regular watering once buds appear. Overwatering can inhibit flower formation.
- Outdoor Conditioning: If possible, place the cactus outside in partial shade during the late summer or early fall. Expose it to natural light cycles but protect it from frost.
- Fertilize Carefully: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during the growing season, stopping once buds start to form.
By following these steps, your Christmas cactus will be rewarded with beautiful flowers right on time for the holiday season. With consistent care and attention to light, temperature, and watering, you can enjoy a stunning display year after year.
Christmas Cactus FAQ
Q: How often should I water my Christmas cactus?
A: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. During blooming, keep the soil slightly more moist, but avoid letting it sit in water.
Q: Why isn’t my Christmas cactus blooming?
A: Blooming depends on light, temperature, and rest cycles. Ensure your cactus experiences cooler nights (60–65°F) and reduced watering in the fall to trigger bud formation.
Q: Can a Christmas cactus survive outside?
A: Yes, but only in mild climates or during late summer/early fall in partial shade. Bring it indoors before the first frost to protect it from cold damage.
Q: How long do Christmas cactus blooms last?
A: Individual flowers can last 2–3 weeks. Proper care, including consistent light, temperature, and watering, can extend the blooming period.
Q: Do I need to prune my Christmas cactus?
A: Pruning isn’t required but can help maintain shape and encourage branching, which may lead to more blooms in future seasons.
Enjoying Your Christmas Cactus Year After Year
With proper Christmas cactus care, these cheerful plants can become a long-lasting holiday tradition. By managing light, temperature, and watering, and providing occasional fertilization, you can enjoy vibrant blooms that brighten your home each holiday season. Whether you have a single plant or a collection of colorful varieties, a little attention ensures your cactus will reward you with its festive display year after year.
This article about Christmas cactus care was written for Hobby Farms magazine. Click here to subscribe.
