Christmas cacti are beautiful indoor houseplants. They brighten any room of the house with their vivid flowers, which are most often pink, purple, or red. However, unlike most other cacti, the Christmas cactus does not prefer hot and dry living conditions. That's because it's a plant native to the tropical rainforest climates of southeastern Brazil, meaning these succulents require less sunlight and more moisture.

Learn how often to water your Christmas cactus and other tips for creating a perfect environment, so it thrives!

About the Christmas Cactus

Christmas cactus pink

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The Christmas cactus, Schlumbergera x buckleyi, is an epiphytic succulent. In the wild, it often supports itself by growing off of other plants and collecting moisture already in the air instead of directly through its roots. As a result, when domesticated, there are a few specific things to keep in mind when caring for your Christmas cactus.

Create a Watering Schedule

spraying christmas cactus

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To keep your Christmas cactus adequately hydrated, you should aim to water it every two to three weeks. You'll know when it's looking for a drink when the top third of the soil is dry. You can use your fingers to check this or a chopstick.

If the soil is severely dried out, it's best to run water through the soil until it starts leaking out of the drainage holes. Let the plant soak and absorb the water for around 10 minutes. After this, empty the drainage tray. Don't leave your cactus standing in water, as this will likely drown your plant. There need to be pockets of air throughout the soil so there is enough oxygen for your plant to breathe.

Christmas cacti are known to bloom between December and January, hence their name. Around this time, you should notice buds forming at the ends of your plant's stems. To encourage blooming, it's important to water regularly. Water allows nutrients in the soil to dissolve and helps the plant transport them from the roots to the stems.

This movement of nutrients from areas of high to low concentration supports growth and blossoming. However, don't be discouraged if your Christmas cactus doesn't bloom for one year. These plants may occasionally follow a bi-annual blooming schedule.

Your cacti will likely start growing new stems throughout the late spring or early summer months (May through September). If your soil is retaining water, reduce how frequently you water during these months. During this slightly drier period, the stems that will eventually blossom will grow harder and more resilient as they will have less water on which to rely. If you reduce how often you water your cactus, be sure to do so gradually. Extend its dry period by just a few days between watering times, as this cactus does not like drastic changes.

If you live in a region with lower humidity throughout the year, you can also lightly mist your cactus daily. Doing so will support its growth, but once your cactus develops buds, return to your regular watering schedule.

Watch for any other visual cues your plant may provide indicating it's thirsty. Drooping leaves or lack of blossoms during bloom season could also be signs your cactus needs water.

Achieving a Healthy Moisture Balance

Christmas Cacti

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The most essential care instruction for these plants is proper moisture control. Unlike other cacti, the Christmas cactus cannot be left without water for long periods. At the same time, too much water can lead to root rot. There are a few ways to ensure your Christmas cactus has a healthy moisture balance.

Once you bring your Christmas cactus home, ensure it’s in a pot with strong drainage. A drainage tray is also recommended -- make sure to check it frequently for water build-up. These plants do not like to have their roots submerged. For this reason, keeping your cactus in potting soil designed for succulents is also a great idea. Aim to water your cactus from the bottom if you’re using a different soil that retains water well.

These cacti love to live in brightly lit areas but keep them away from direct sunlight. Exposure to too much sun will absorb the much-needed air and soil moisture these plants require.

When selecting a living area for this plant, it’s best to choose a spot with high humidity, such as a bathroom. They also prefer moderate temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Keep an Eye on Your Cacti

Check in on your Christmas cactus weekly to guarantee its living conditions are appropriate. These include a proper amount of indirect sunlight, strong humidity levels, and moist soil.

Did you know Christmas cacti can live very long lives? With proper and consistent care and watering, you’ll be able to grow a healthy Christmas cactus that may live up to 100 years old!