Christmas Cactus―The Other Holiday Plant
Contributed by Judith Le Vault, Pasco County Master Gardener
| There is one steadfast plant determined not to let us down as the festivities are in full swing―the
Christmas cactus. This otherwise strange-looking plant
produces a bountiful display of delicate, pastel flowers
hanging, literally, in full array. A sight always worth
waiting a year to behold. While the poinsettia is the plant icon for Christmas, the Christmas cactus is easy to grow, comes in many colors, and makes a great, care-free gift. |
| Growing Conditions: |
| A low-maintenance plant, Christmas cactus should be watered periodically, but not excessively. A hole in the bottom of the pot is a must. Soil that is bone-dry for a prolonged period can also cause flower bud drop. Since these plants prefer to be slightly pot bound, repotting is needed only every three years. Watering an established, outdoor plant is needed only every couple days in warm, sunny weather, or weekly in cool, cloudy weather. Fertilize plants only during their growing season (April to September). |
| Flowering: |
| Christmas cacti flower best when nighttime temperatures
average 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperatures
become continuously warm, flower buds may drop. Responding
to the length of daylight, as days get shorter in winter, onset
of flowering occurs. Where lots of night light is found,
some lessening of flowers may occur. During the day, the
Christmas cactus does best in bright, indirect light.
Direct sunlight might burn and stunt growth causing less
flowering. With all this said, I have had five Christmas cacti sitting in my Florida lanai facing the southeast for the past seven years. I ignore them throughout the year, only making sure they are watered, and then enjoy all the "ooh's" and "ah's" as the plants are admired during the holidays. Consider adding this great plant to your holiday shopping list. |
| For More Information: |
| Visit the Web site http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/giam/ or contact your Pasco County Extension Office. |
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