Dividing a Huge Christmas Cactus: Wait Until Spring

Your massive, blooming Christmas cactus must not be divided now. Roots are dormant; division will kill it. Wait until April 1–June 30.

If You Need It Smaller Immediately

• Move to an unfinished basement.
• Hang 2-tube fluorescents 6 inches above on a 14-hour timer.
• This tricks the plant into “summer” so roots grow after division.

Spring Division Method

1. Remove all buds/blooms.
2. Cut large sections at joints, dip in rooting hormone, plant in 10-inch pots with mix: 2 parts soil : 1 part perlite : 1 part sand.
3. Don’t water 2 days (let cuts callus).
4. Divide mother plant into 3–4 sections, pot each in 10-inch pots with fresh mix.
5. Give away extras. Never repot into larger pots—divide instead.

For cactus care guide, email wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com.