Christmas cactus Schlumbergera

Christmas Cactus Schlumbergera

Christmas cactus Schlumbergera , a tropical epiphytic cactus, thrives with bright indirect light, moderate watering, and high humidity.​

Light and Temperature

• Place in bright, indirect light like an east-facing window; avoid direct sun to prevent scorching.​

• Ideal temperatures are 60–70°F (15–21°C) daytime, cooler nights around 50–55°F (10–13°C) in fall to trigger blooms; protect from drafts and temperatures below 50°F.​

Watering and Humidity for Christmas cactus Schlumbergera

• Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, keeping it evenly moist but never soggy; reduce in fall/winter to promote buds.​

• Mist leaves regularly or use a pebble tray for humidity, especially during blooming.​

Soil, Fertilizer, and Repotting for Christmas cactus Schlumbergera

• Use well-draining potting mix with perlite or peat-free cactus compost in a pot slightly larger with drainage holes.​

• Fertilize monthly with diluted balanced or high-potassium formula in spring/summer; stop in fall.​

• Repot annually after blooming, pruning stems lightly for bushiness.​

Christmas cactus Schlumbergera needs a cool period starting in late September to early October (about 6–8 weeks before desired bloom time, typically mid-November to December) to trigger flower buds.​​

Timing and Duration

• Begin around the autumn equinox (late September) for holiday blooms: provide 12–14 hours of uninterrupted darkness nightly plus cooler nights for 6–8 weeks until buds form.​​

• In New Delhi’s climate, simulate this indoors by moving to a dark closet or covered spot from evening to morning during this fall window.​

Temperature Details

• Nighttime lows of 50–55°F (10–13°C), with daytime 60–70°F (15–21°C); a 10–15°F drop between day/night is key.​​

• Avoid lights at night or warmth above 70°F, as these disrupt bud set; once buds appear, return to normal bright indirect light.