Christmas and Holidays Over? 

Toss the Tree – But Keep the Cactus

For generations, plants have had a significant role in the décor of Christmas. Traditionally, we think of Poinsettia, Holly, Ivy and Evergreen trees that bring color, interest, and lore to the Season. The Christmas Cactus is also a prominent addition and one of few plants flowering in winter. For anyone who has ever witnessed a specimen plant in bloom, they are a sight to behold. Unlike most holiday plants, the Christmas Cactus not only lives beyond the season but has been known to thrive for generations.


What is post-holiday care for the Christmas Cactus?

Avoid sudden changes to its immediate environment, such as moving and repositioning that alters its light and temperature exposure. When blooming has stopped, it is an ideal time to prune, i.e. prior to new growth in spring. Pruning, though not always necessary, is directed at leggy or stretched branches and can make the plant more compact and take up less space. 

Following the bloom period, adding an organic fertilizer each month up until autumn increases vigor and improves flowering. This cactus likes soil slightly moist but never wet or bone-dry. Allow the top inch of soil to feel dry, then thoroughly water. Ideally, allow this surface dryness to occur before re-watering.  This plant prefers its roots in a “tight fit”, that is, preferring to be somewhat pot-bound and remain contained for 2-3 years before upgrading to a larger container. 

Not to be confused with the cactus of a hot, dry environment (above image on left), The Christmas Cactus (above image on right), is more of a succulent, actually an epiphyte. This means that it thrives in tropical forests clinging to rocks and tree crevices. It requires soil of a typical cactus, which is porous (quick to drain), and best planted in a clay (rather than plastic)  pot.

The Christmas Cactus does well outside in the summer, ideally on a patio or porch that is somewhat shaded and not exposed to direct sun. During this time, it will be gathering energy for the coming winter bloom show. Preparing the cactus to rebloom next December requires specific details, and will be discussed at a future date. 

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-Rob McCartney, Horticulturist