Christmas Cactus Q&A: Essential Things You Should Know

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Is your Christmas cactus not flowering and looking a bit limp? Are you a new plant parent and not really sure how to care for your cactus? Or perhaps you’ve inherited an old Christmas cactus and want to ensure it continues to grow in your care?

This story will answer all the essential questions about how to care for the Christmas cactus, from the type of soil to use and how often to water it, to how to get it to flower each season.

How Long Do Christmas Cactus Live?

Christmas cactus enjoys excellent longevity and can live for more than 100 years. Healthy, well-looked-after plants are often passed down from one generation to another as family heirlooms.

How Often Do You Water a Christmas Cactus?

Unlike desert cactus species, the Christmas cactus is very sensitive to drought but doesn’t like being overwatered either. 

Should You Water Christmas Cactus From the Top or Bottom?

Always water your Christmas cactus from the top. This will help flush out salt and mineral buildups in the soil, improve soil aeration, and ensure that the soil is evenly moist.

How Can You Tell If a Christmas Cactus Is Overwatered or Underwatered?

You can tell if your Christmas cactus is receiving too much water if the stems are turning yellow, starting to limp, and if they feel soft to the touch.

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