Plant Bio
Christmas cacti bloom just in time for the holidays (hence their name), and they're pretty stunning too. The hanging branches, which are made up of flat, glossy green segments, can grow to up to 3 feet long. Flowers in red, white, yellow, pink, or purple appear at the tips of these branches and measure up to 3 inches long with several tiers of petals. Each bloom lasts for several days, and the entire flowering period of most cultivars will span several weeks. But in order to keep these plants looking beautiful, you need to follow all the steps involved with proper Christmas cactus care.
There are certain factors that can help — or hinder — your Christmas cactus's potential. For example, this Brazilian coastal plant (which is also known as Schlumbergera) favors more humid conditions than desert-dwelling species do. Plus, it needs extended periods of darkness before it can begin flowering.
A lack of water and dramatic temperature swings can cause flower buds to drop more rapidly. Maximize your specimen's blooming period by paying attention to these six key factors:
Soil
Use a quality soil rich in humus and other nutrients.
Temperature
Maintain an optimal climate of 65 degrees.
Watering
Keep the soil evenly moist while your plant is blooming, misting it frequently.
Light
Place the cactus in an east-facing window for moderate light and some direct sun.
Fertilization
Apply a high-potassium fertilizer every two weeks once buds form.
Transplantation
Repot your cactus each year after flowering.