Last post, I talked about a popular winter plant called the Amaryllis. This week, the featured plant is another popular Christmas gift: The Christmas cactus.
The Christmas cactus, or Schlumbergera, is native to the mountains of south-eastern Brazil. It likes shade and high humidity. It can be recognized by its leaf-like pads and pink flowers which flower only around Thanksgiving or Christmas (hence the name).
Here are some tips for caring for your Christmas cactus:
1. Keep away from direct sunlight, drafts, heat vents, or fireplaces.
2. Provide a source of humidity. You can put a tray of water next to the plant, so that the water evaporates and provides humidity.
3. Do not overwater. Once a week should be enough. And if you can, don't water from the top. It is best to put the plant in a tray of water and allow water to seep through holes in the bottom of the container.
4. Prune your cactus one month after blooming.
The Christmas cactus, or Schlumbergera, is native to the mountains of south-eastern Brazil. It likes shade and high humidity. It can be recognized by its leaf-like pads and pink flowers which flower only around Thanksgiving or Christmas (hence the name).
Here are some tips for caring for your Christmas cactus:
1. Keep away from direct sunlight, drafts, heat vents, or fireplaces.
2. Provide a source of humidity. You can put a tray of water next to the plant, so that the water evaporates and provides humidity.
3. Do not overwater. Once a week should be enough. And if you can, don't water from the top. It is best to put the plant in a tray of water and allow water to seep through holes in the bottom of the container.
4. Prune your cactus one month after blooming.
I won't post here again, before Christmas, so I'd like to wish all of you who celebrate, a very Merry Christmas!
Ray's mother has one she's kept going for over 4 years. Pretty plant. Merry Christmas to you!
ReplyDeleteThat's about how long my last one lived. Hope you had a very Merry Christmas!
DeleteI think we killed one of those once...
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas, Sherry!
It seems you've killed just about everything green at your place. ;-)
DeleteI hope you had a wonderful Christmas, Alex! Happy New Year!
Hi Sherry. We received a card from friends in Australia with a pack of seeds that has a picture on the pack that looks just like this Christmas cactus. Maybe it's a seasonal thing but I know it's native to Australia.
ReplyDeleteThat I did not know. When I go to Australia, I'll have to keep my eyes open for them.
DeleteHi Sherry - happy Christmas and New Year ... and for all your tips and trips to beautiful gardens through the year.
ReplyDeleteChristmas cacti are lovely .. and they will tolerate not a lot of care ... cheers and Happy Christmas to you and your family - have fun! - Hilary
Hope you had a wonderful Christmas, Hilary! Wishing you all the best in 2016!
DeleteI'd like to try a Christmas cactus sometime.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas.
They are pretty and easy to care for.
DeleteHappy New Year!