Known best for its impressive holiday blooms, the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) is cherished by growers for its cheerful winter displays. Indoor plants offer gardeners continued beauty year after year, perennializing with ease, and requiring only minimal care.
Still, those hoping to keep this interesting species as a houseplant will need to consider its growth needs carefully. Good Christmas cactus care starts with creating a healthy foundation for plants to flourish. Like all types of holiday cactus, this means meeting the species' specific soil requirements.
If you aren't sure whether you have a Christmas cactus, Thanksgiving cactus, or Easter cactus, then the good news is that their needs are very similar.
So, whether you're repotting Christmas cactus plants in fresh soil or learning how to propagate a Christmas cactus with the best potting mix, then read on for advice on creating the ideal growing medium.
Ideal Growing Requirements for Christmas Cactus
Native to Brazil, Schlumbergera is an epiphyte plant, meaning it grows on the trunks of larger trees and gains most of its moisture from the air. The Christmas cactus roots sink into decomposing leaves and debris resting on the sides of trees.
The plant draws some moisture from this makeshift soil, but because of its small volume and position high in the air, this soil dries out easily even with daily rainfall. This means that the best soil for Christmas cactus is extremely well-draining.
The growing medium should consist of a rich loam, high in organic matter. Experts often note that soil for Christmas cactus should be slightly acidic, allowing for a more favorable growing environment.
Potted Schlumbergera perform best when they are able to receive bright, indirect light. Indoors, this usually means that containers should be positioned near an east- or west-facing window. Regular Christmas cactus watering is also a must, making certain to avoid oversaturation.
What is the Best Christmas Cactus Soil?
The Christmas cactus will thrive in a variety of soil types. Though regular potting soils can be used, those specifically formulated to use with cacti and other succulent plants are often best. Such mixes are associated with better drainage and improved regulation of moisture, essential to the growth of certain plant species. The right potting mix will help make a Christmas cactus bloom over the holidays.
More experienced growers may choose to craft their own potting medium. Christmas cactus potting soils of this type are likely to include combinations of finished compost, sand, grit, moss, and perlite or vermiculite.
To make an easy potting mix, combine three parts of regular potting soil with two parts perlite or vermiculite. This will provide perfectly adequate drainage.
If you’d like to take it a step further, mix equal parts compost, perlite or vermiculite, and milled peat.
These recipes can also be used for Thanksgiving cacti and Easter cacti.
Give Existing Christmas Cactus Soil a Boost
Over time, even the best potting soil for Christmas cactus plants can become depleted of nutrients. Sudden yellowing, and other noticeable signs of stress, are among the first indicators of poor soil fertility. Routine feeding can help to give the growing medium a boost, resulting in improved plant health.
The best Christmas cactus fertilizer is a well-balanced feed, specifically formulated for use with houseplants. Fast-acting liquids are generally considered best, aiding in the growth of foliage and development of flowers.
Especially tired soils may need to be replaced. This is best done when plants are repotted, once every two or three years. Plant it in a pot that provides just a little room for growth, and transplant it no more frequently than every three years.
Best Aftercare for Christmas Cactus Soil
Continued monthly feeding throughout periods of active growth will aid in keeping Christmas cactus plants both healthy and happy. Consistent watering, when soil has dried to the touch, will further help to meet the needs of the plant.
Water your Christmas cactus whenever the soil is dry – try not to let the soil dry out completely, but don’t let water stand in the pot or the saucer underneath, which could result in root rot. Drainage is much more important than water volume.
As noted, established specimens will require repotting with some frequency, as a means to support growth and prevent the loss of nutrients within the soil. Repotting will further aid in sustaining a strong root system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Christmas Cactus Like Acidic Soil?
Though it is possible to grow the plant in a standard mix, the best potting soil for Christmas cactus plants are those which are slightly acidic. This commonly includes those that have been specifically formulated for use with succulents, cacti, and species with similar needs. Other options include azalea or rhododendron mixes, as well as those rich in materials, like bark or moss.
Can I Use African Violet Soil for Christmas Cactus?
Many growers have found success with the use of African violet soil when growing Christmas cactus. Quality potting mixes of this type should demonstrate excellent drainage, and be slightly acidic in nature.
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