Christmas Cactus (Zygo Cactus) Care: Fertilizer, Repotting, and Reblooming

A reader asked what liquid fertilizer to use for a Christmas cactus (Zygo cactus) with a mylar sleeve.

Key Points

• Do NOT repot while blooming; it will drop flowers. Repot only in spring (Apr 15–Jun 15) to a pot 2 inches larger.
• Fertilize 3–4 times per year with water-soluble fertilizer for blooming plants (e.g., Miracle-Gro for bloomers). Never fertilize a month before expected bloom or during bloom.
• Water when soil is dry but not bone-dry; check every couple weeks.
• To rebloom: chill at 55–60°F for 2 weeks, 6–8 weeks before desired bloom time, then return to normal conditions.

Advice from Darlene, volunteer plant expert.