blog, Plant Care

How to Care for your Christmas Cactus

Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) Care & Culture Guide

The Christmas Cactus is a cheerful, easy-to-grow houseplant that bursts into vibrant blooms just in time for the holidays. Unlike desert cacti, this plant comes from tropical forests of Brazil, where it grows on trees or rocks in humid conditions. With the right care, your Christmas Cactus can live for decades and bloom beautifully year after year.

🌤 Light

Place your Christmas Cactus in bright, indirect light. A north- or east-facing window is ideal. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves, while too little light may reduce blooming. If natural light is limited, a grow light can help maintain healthy growth during winter months.

🌱 Soil

Use a well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix, such as one formulated for succulents or orchids. You can make your own by combining two parts potting soil with one part perlite or coarse sand. Avoid heavy soils that stay soggy, as root rot is a common problem.

💧 Water

Keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again. During active growth (spring and summer), water regularly. Reduce watering slightly in the fall to encourage blooming. Never let the plant sit in standing water.

🌸 Fertilizer

Feed your Christmas Cactus every 4–6 weeks from spring through early fall with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer (such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20). Stop fertilizing in late fall and winter when the plant begins its rest and bloom phase.

✂️ Pruning & Reblooming Tips

After blooming, prune lightly to encourage branching. You can pinch or cut back a few segments from each stem. To trigger new buds, the plant needs:

  • Cool nighttime temps (around 55–60°F)

  • Short days (12–14 hours of darkness nightly for about 6 weeks)

Avoid moving or rotating the plant once buds appear, as this can cause them to drop.

🌡 Temperature & Humidity

Christmas Cactus thrives in temperatures between 60–70°F and enjoys moderate humidity. If your home is dry, place the pot on a humidity tray or mist occasionally. Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.

🪲 Common Problems

  • Bud Drop: Caused by drafts, temperature swings, or overwatering.

  • Shriveled Segments: Usually from underwatering.

  • No Blooms: Often due to too much light at night or not enough rest in fall.

🌿 Seasonal Care

  • Spring/Summer: Encourage growth with regular watering and feeding.

  • Fall: Begin bloom prep with cooler temps and shorter light periods.

  • Winter: Enjoy the blooms; reduce watering slightly after flowering.

  • Post-Bloom: Allow the plant to rest for about a month before resuming regular care.

Friendly Tip: Christmas Cactus is easy to share! Simply twist off a few stem segments, let them dry for a day, and root them in moist potting mix to create new plants for friends and family.

Michelle Harvey