Christmas Cactus Care: How to Grow Holiday Cacti for Winter Blooms

Christmas cacti are easy-care houseplants that reward you with stunning pink or lilac blooms during the holiday season. They're sensitive to stress—sudden changes in light, temperature, or watering can cause bud drop. If buds fall in winter, the plant often reblooms the following year.

Care

• From spring through summer, feed every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer and keep soil evenly moist. In fall and winter, fertilize monthly.
• Allow soil to nearly dry between waterings. Shriveled stems indicate underwatering.

Pests & Diseases

Watch for mealybugs and, if overwatered, root rot.

Recommended Varieties

Thanksgiving cactus and other holiday cactus types offer similar care and extended bloom periods.

Tips & Trivia

• When buds appear ready to open, water regularly and keep the plant cool to prolong flowering.
• Spring is the ideal time to propagate cuttings, as cacti emerge from winter dormancy and initiate new growth.