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Its certainly a statement plant thats vibrantly hued at a time when so many other houseplants are lying dormant.
The foliage of a Christmas cactus is quite different from that of most houseplants.
These blooms last for a couple of weeks ideally over the holiday season.
Repotting prevents the plant from getting root-bound and ensures that the cactus gets sufficient nutrients.
This ceramic planter has a maximum diameter of 10 inches and comes with a saucer to finish the look.
The beige glazed houseplant pot has a central drainage hole to promote root growth, by avoiding root rot.
You’ll also find felt non-slip pads attached to the bottom on the saucer to protect your countertop surfaces.
Soil
The most important characteristic is that your soil is well-draining, hence the drainage hole in the container.
Ideal conditions include slightly acidic soil, so consider adjusting the pH levels for maximum blooming.
During the peak growing months of spring and summer, warmer temperatures of 70-80F are optimal.
Some humidity is also good, so consider misting your cactus during the dryer winter.
Fertilizer
As with most plants, Christmas cacti benefit from fertilizing at the beginning of the growing season.
Once buds have formed, stop fertilizing until the flowers begin to bloom in the winter.
During flowering, you might resume feeding the plants on a monthly basis with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.
In some cases you may be able to simply twist the segment off at the joint.
However, only do this after the flowering season has finished in late winter.
Misting is recommended to keep humidity levels sufficiently high.
Dont fertilize until the blooms have fully emerged.
It should take a few weeks for this to generate those young buds.
Once they emerge, you’re able to relax this schedule.
Be careful to keep temperatures generally consistent so that the plant doesnt experience shock and drop its flowers.