🌿 Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)

The Christmas Cactus is a festive favorite, known for its colorful tubular flowers that bloom around the winter holidays. With arching, segmented stems and blooms in pink, red, white, or purple, it brings a pop of color and cheer to any indoor space.

🔆 Light Requirements

Ideal Light: Bright, indirect light — east or north-facing windows are perfect.
Tolerates: Moderate light; avoid intense afternoon sun.
Avoid: Direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves and cause them to turn red or yellow.

💧 Watering Guidelines

When to Water: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feels dry.
Frequency: About once a week during active growth (spring–fall), less in winter.
Important: Do not let the soil stay soggy. Ensure the pot drains well to prevent root rot.

🌾 Soil & Potting

Soil: Use a light, well-draining mix — a cactus or succulent potting mix works well, ideally mixed with a bit of peat or cocopeat.
Pot: Use a pot with drainage holes. Terracotta pots help excess moisture evaporate.

🌱 Fertilization

Feed: Every 2–4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Avoid: Fertilizing in late fall and winter when the plant prepares to bloom or rest.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

Prune: After flowering, pinch or snip off a few stem segments to encourage branching and a fuller plant.
Cleaning: Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust.
Rebloom Tip: To encourage winter blooms, give it cooler nights (10–15°C / 50–59°F) and 12–14 hours of darkness for about 6 weeks in autumn.

🪴 Humidity & Temperature

Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity — mist occasionally if air is very dry.
Temperature: Ideal range is 18–24°C (65–75°F). Keep away from cold drafts or heaters.

✅ Why Choose the Christmas Cactus?

• Holiday Bloomer: Flowers beautifully around winter holidays with the right care.

• Easy Propagation: Can be grown from stem cuttings in water or soil.

• Non-Toxic: Safe for pets, unlike many other holiday plants.

• Long-Lived: Can thrive for decades and be passed down generations.