Celebrate a Green Christmas with This Festive Flora for Romantic Moments

This holiday season, many Arizonans may find themselves gifted with a unique plant: the Christmas cactus. Indigenous to the coastal regions of Brazil, these hardy succulents thrive in humid environments, standing in contrast to the arid conditions of the Sonoran Desert.

The Christmas cactus can stretch up to three feet, displaying vibrant flowers in hues ranging from pink and red to white and yellow. Interestingly, the purplish-red variety is the most common, while yellow blooms are rare gems among them.

Once you receive one as a gift, keep it in its original pot and choose a spot where it can bask in indirect sunlight. Ideal temperatures hover between 60 and 70 degrees, away from drafty areas.

Watering this plant requires attention; unlike its desert cousins, the Christmas cactus prefers moist soil. It’s crucial to water when the topsoil feels dry, particularly during the warmer spring and summer months. However, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, as that can have detrimental effects on the plant’s health.

Monthly nourishment using a diluted liquid fertilizer helps maintain its vitality. Consistency in watering and fertilizing is key to keeping this plant healthy and flourishing.

As spring approaches, plan to repot your Christmas cactus into a larger planter to facilitate growth. A blend of sand and peat moss creates an ideal environment, ensuring proper drainage for the roots.

Be vigilant about pests such as spider mites and mealybugs, which can disrupt the cactus’s health. Employ a houseplant insecticide if these nuisances appear.

To encourage blooming the following Christmas, withhold fertilizer starting in October and ensure a rhythm of 12 hours of light and darkness. A cool temperature of around 55 degrees during the dark period will help set the stage for flower buds to emerge.

With proper care, your Christmas cactus can thrive and bring beauty into your home for many holiday seasons to come.

Cheryl Purvis is a Pinal County Master Gardener.