What is killing my Christmas cactus ?
As an experient gardener , I sympathise the frustration of seeing your beloved Christmas cactus suffer and potentially become flat . There could be several factors contributing to its decline , but one common perpetrator is overwatering .
Overwatering is a uncouth misunderstanding that many plant proprietor make , and it can be especially prejudicial to Christmas cacti . These plants , also make out as Schlumbergera , are native to the rainforests of Brazil , where they produce as epiphytes on trees . They have adapted to come through in a moist environment but are not suited to invariably wet soil .
When we overwater our Christmas cactus , we fundamentally asphyxiate the roots by depriving them of oxygen . This lack of oxygen can lead to root rot and other fungal or bacterial infections in the filth . Additionally , excess moisture can cause the plant ’s delicate roots to become soppy and eventually rot away .
To obviate overwatering , it ’s important to understand the specific lachrymation want of your Christmas cactus . These plants prefer a slenderly dampish , well - drain soil . A estimable rule of thumb is to look until the top column inch of land feels ironic before watering again . Inserting your finger’s breadth into the soil can help oneself you define its wet level .
It ’s also essential to ensure that your Christmas cactus is planted in a pot with drainage holes . These holes allow excess water supply to break away , forestall body of water from pooling at the bottom of the slew . If your current sight does n’t have drainage holes , view repot your cactus into one that does .
In summation to overwatering , other factors can contribute to the decline of your Christmas cactus . These let in inadequate inflammation , uttermost temperatures , and improper fertilization . It ’s authoritative to allow for your cactus with shiny , collateral light to ensure right growth . Avoid placing it in direct sunlight , as this can lead to sunburn .
Christmas cacti expand in temperature between 60 - 70 ° F ( 15 - 21 ° C ) , so nullify exposing them to uttermost heat or stale . Sudden temperature fluctuation can also strain the plant and make it more susceptible to disease .
When it comes to fertilization , Christmas cacti do n’t want gruelling eating . A balanced , water supply - soluble fertilizer can be applied at half - potency every 2 - 3 calendar month during the grow season ( spring and summer ) . Be conservative not to over - fertilize , as excessive food can harm the plant .
Personal experience : I once had a Christmas cactus that take up to decline , and I could n’t reckon out the suit ab initio . After doing some enquiry and consulting with fellow nurseryman , I realized that I had been overwatering it . I immediately correct my lachrymation routine and allowed the land to dry out between lacrimation . Within a few weeks , the plant started to show augury of recovery , and it eventually flower attractively during the vacation season .
Overwatering is a coarse cause of Christmas cactus downslope . Remember to provide your plant with well - draining stain , water it only when the top inch of soil is juiceless , and assure it receive adequate light , temperature , and right fertilisation . By understanding and addressing these factors , you may avail your Christmas cactus flourish and keep off its untimely dying .
Caroline Bates
