Bright green and sitting on a table near the window or resting on the
patio floor, your holiday cactus is probably just another plant at this
time of the year. But in about four months it could be bursting with
seasonal color if given a little summer care.
Holiday Cactus
(Click to Enlarge)
Photo by Tom MacCubbin
First check to make sure your plant has the proper size pot. Holiday
cactus, also called Thanksgiving and Christmas cactus, like to be a
little pot bound. But when the roots form a web in the shape of the pot
it's time for a little larger container. Just a pot one inch larger in
diameter is best and now is a good time to do the transplanting.
Holiday cactus make the best growth during summer. These are tropical
cactus without spines that prefer the hot moist weather. Feed lightly
monthly when the weather is warm. They should also have extra moisture
at this time. Watered when the surface soil just begins to dry to the
touch.
Besides summer, the fall season is also a very critical
care time. Starting in late September or early October use these tips to
ensure good holiday color.
Reduce watering to only when the
surface soil feels dry to the touch.
Stop all feedings until spring.
Keep plants in a bright area but out of
direct sun.
Make sure the plants receive no
nighttime light; critical for holiday blooms.
Control caterpillars and slugs on
plants kept out doors.
Protect from temperatures below 55
degrees.
No, my plant is not in flower now but in about three months I am looking
for a great display of holiday color.
