Blooming again since Christmas

Patricia Mosey

Christmas Cacti are easy to grow. When they bloom, they produce beautiful colors of pink or lilac.  If exposed to any type of stress, they will drop their blossoms. If the cacti sheds its buds in a winter, it will bloom the following year.

Care

• From spring through summer feed every 2 weeks with a fertilizer and keep the soil moist. During the fall and winter feed the cactus monthly.
• Allow soil to almost dry between waterings. If the stems look shriveled, it is an indication of too little watering.  

Pests/Diseases

May be susceptible to mealy bugs and, if over-watered, root rot.

Recommended Varieties

Thanksgiving cactus or holiday cactus.

Wit & Wisdom

• When the buds of a Christmas cactus look as if they’re about to open, make sure you water the plant regularly and keep it cool.
• Spring is the best time to propagate cuttings because most cacti emerge from their winter rest and initiate new growth.