Question
Can I plant Zygo Cactus outdoors? If not can i repot it and when can i repot it?




Thank You,
Rhonda

Answer
Hi Rhonda,

Zycocactus, now known as Schlumbergera and commonly called Christmas Cactus, is a tropical plant that cannot withstand freezing temperatures. So in your location, you would be advised to bring it indoors at the first warning of frost. Exposing it to cool temperatures in the fall will help promote flowers, but never push it below freezing.

There is no connection between repotting and keeping it outdoors. Most tropical plants are non-seasonal. Your plant has a fine root system that must be kept in a small pot. It is extremely rare for a Schlumbergera to need repotting. Repotting almost always disrupts the flowering cycle and results in at least one year of no flowers.

So move your plant outside now and keep it in its existing pot. Make sure it is in shade and bring it back inside in late fall when frost is a possibility.

I have written articles on repotting and on Christmas Cactus care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected]. I have also written an indoor plant care book in a PDF format that I can sell you if you contact me at my email address.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com