How Often To Water Christmas Cactus

Let’s take a look at how often you should water a Christmas cactus as the holiday season approaches.

How Often Should You Water A Christmas Cactus?

Christmas cacti, sometimes known as holiday cacti, include Thanksgiving and Easter cacti. These related species flourish in similar growing conditions. All holiday cacti are epiphytes, meaning they naturally grow on trees or rocks rather than in soil.

They are not parasitic and do not take water or nutrients from their host plants. Instead, they absorb moisture from rain and humidity, along with nutrients from decaying organic matter surrounding their roots. When watering these attractive plants at home, try to recreate their natural environment to help them thrive. Use the following tips for watering.

While Flowering

During the flowering stage, this cactus thrives best in evenly moist soil. The moisture is necessary for both forming and maintaining blooms throughout the season. Most Christmas cacti will bloom for four weeks or more at a time. Try to check that the soil remains moist by touching it every few days.

In the wintertime, indoor heating can be utilized to dry the soil out faster and even lower humidity. Monitor the soil regularly to ensure the plant never gets too dry while the cactus is in bloom. Dropping buds, for example, are signs the soil is too dry.

Winter

Once the cactus ceases flowering for the year, you can reduce the amount of water it receives. This cycle is typically completed in the late winter. Try to allow 3-4 inches of soil to dry before watering again.

Only water the Christmas cactus every two weeks post-flowering. The plants ultimately favor extended dry periods until they resume growing in the spring.

Spring And Summer

Holiday cacti enter a phase of active growth in the spring and summer months. This means they will require more waterings, at this time. However, it is still important to ensure the soil is slightly dry between watering sessions.

Try to monitor the moisture each and every week. If the top inch of the soil feels dry, the time is now to water the plant. Wait on watering if the soil is still moist. Once the soil is completely dry, water it thoroughly with the help of a moisture meter.

Fall

You should increase the watering frequency during this time in preparation for the holiday season. Water the plant when the soil feels completely dry.

Typically, watering should be done every 7-10 days.  Consistent watering is always ideal for flower development. Too little or too much water can harm the festive plant.