Christmas Cactus: Growing Holiday-Blooming Succulents Indoors

Blooming again since Christmas

Christmas Cacti are easy to grow. When they bloom, they produce beautiful pink or lilac colors. Stress causes blossom drop. If buds shed in winter, they'll bloom the following year.

Care

• Spring through summer: feed every 2 weeks with fertilizer; keep soil moist. Fall/winter: feed monthly.
• Allow soil to almost dry between waterings. Shriveled stems = underwatering.

Pests and Diseases

Susceptible to mealybugs; overwatering causes root rot.

Recommended Varieties

Thanksgiving cactus or holiday cactus.

Wit & Wisdom

• When buds look ready to open, water regularly and keep cool.
• Spring is best for propagating cuttings—most cacti emerge from winter rest and initiate new growth.