An avid reader we will call Linda asked me to write about these plants. We both understand it is past Christmas but the information should still be helpful.

Christmas, Easter or Thanksgiving cacti are all similar in cultural requirements, they just bloom at different times. Even though we call these plants cacti, they grow in tropical regions of the world. This is the reason these plants like humidity.

Christmas cacti grow best in indirect light. They will tolerate full sun in mid winter but not during summer months.

Of course we want the plant to flower during the Christmas season. This is done by controlling light. Place the plant in a location where it receives indoor indirect light during the day and 13 hours of total darkness. This means no night light from outside or inside during this period. If a good fertilizer has been used up to now one should stop fertilizing the plant at this time. The night time temperature should be between 55 - 60°F. One should begin this in mid September and continue for approximately eight weeks. The plant should now be ready to bloom during the Christmas season.

A Christmas cactus will bloom better if somewhat pot-bound. These plants do not like wet conditions so make sure the potting soil is well-drained. A mixture of one part sand, one part potting soil and two parts peat moss should provide a good soil media. Plants should be repotted every 3 – 4 years. After Christmas give the plant a rest for about a month. Then keep the plant growing with an application of a complete fertilizer monthly as the plant is watered. Plants should be watered when soil is dry to the touch. Never over water to the point where the soil becomes water logged.

The result should be a beautiful blooming plant during the next Christmas season. One should also be aware a well kept plant will flower several times during the year.

One last thought if blooms are dropping from the plant. It is usually stress from over-watering, lack of humidity or insufficient light.