High time to enhance your Christmas cactus blooms! Find out the easy care tips to save your plant from the chilling winters of December.
December is peak blooming time for the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii). While it’s usually low-maintenance, this is when it needs a bit more attention. Think of it as returning the favor for all those beautiful flowers.
Best Tips for Christmas Cactus in December
1. Water Your Christmas Cactus Sparingly!
Christmas cactus is a succulent, but not a desert one. Too much water can quickly lead to root rot, while too little can affect blooming. Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry, and always use room-temperature water. During fall and winter, watering once every 4–6 weeks is usually enough.
Also, never let water sit in the saucer. Standing water is a silent troublemaker and can rot the roots even if everything else is done right.
2. Maintain Temperature and Environmental Stability
Higher humidity keeps your winter plant comfortable. Place a tray filled with pebbles and water under the pot to create a gentle humid zone. Keep an eye out for fungal issues, as excess humidity can sometimes invite them.
For bud formation, Christmas cactus prefers cool nights between 55–65°F. At the same time, protect it from cold windowpanes and sudden drafts, as temperature swings can cause bud or leaf drop. In short—keep things steady, and your plant will stay happy.
3. Harsh/Direct Sunlight May Be Harmful
The Christmas cactus is a delicate indoor plant that requires little care. As a result, we must protect it from direct sunlight. The plant’s red or purple foliage indicates that it is receiving more unfiltered sunlight than it actually requires. But how will we know how much sunlight the plant requires? Continue to observe the plant’s buds and blossoms.
It’s possible that the plant hasn’t gotten enough continuous darkness if it hasn’t blossomed by December. In order to initiate bud formation, Christmas cacti require at least 12 to 14 hours of continuous darkness each night for around six weeks, along with a lower nighttime temperature.
4. Do Not Fertilize
Fertilization is only necessary for Christmas cacti during their active growing season, which usually takes place in the spring. Fertilizing your cactus in December can result in the growth of new leaves, which may inhibit the plant’s ability to produce flowers. Therefore, avoid fertilizing in December if you like to use Christmas cacti to decorate your space.
5. Post-Bloom care is required!
Once the flowers open, avoid moving the plant—Christmas cactus doesn’t like change during bloom. After flowering ends, reduce watering for about a month in late December or early January. Keep the soil slightly dry while maintaining stable humidity and temperature.
This short rest period helps the plant recharge before spring growth begins. Think of it as a well-earned power nap.
Christmas cactus brings warmth and color to the holiday season. With just a little mindful care, you can enjoy weeks of blooms without dealing with root rot or bud drop.
Got questions about keeping your plant happy during chilly Decembers? Drop them in the comments—we’re all in this together 🌸
