How often to water a Christmas cactus depends on whether your plant is blooming or not.
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There’s some confusion around how often to water aChristmas cactusbecause of its name.
Plus, how often to water Christmas cactus plants varies depending on the time of year.
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All of these plants are epiphytes that grow on trees or rocks rather than soil.
Holiday cacti aren’t parasitic because they dont take water or nutrients from other plants.
The goal when watering these plants at home is to mimic their natural environment.
During Flowering
Holiday cacti bloom best when the soil is evenly moist during flowering.
The plants use water to both form and sustain their flowers.
It’s not unusual for aChristmas cactusto bloom for four weeks or more.
Remember, the soil around houseplants can dry out quickly in winter due to indoor heating andlow relative humidity.
Signs of overly dry soil are dropping buds and dull-looking foliage.
Allow the top 3-4 inches of soil to dry before watering.
The potted plant should feel somewhat lightweight when you lift it.
Water your holiday cactus every couple weeks after it finishes flowering.
Spring and Summer
Spring and summer are times of active growth for holiday cactus plants.
Check the soil moisture in a week.
If the top inch ofsoil feels dry to the touch, water your houseplant.
Water as soon as the soil is completely dry.
A moisture meter can also help you gauge when you should add more water.
Fall
Help your holiday cactus prepare for bloom season by watering more frequently.
Water when the soil surface feels dry to the touch.
Depending on the growing conditions around your plant, you could water weekly or every 10 days.
Consistent watering is key to flower development.
Too much or too little moisture at this time can cause the buds to drop.
But when you notice buds forming, start watering more regularly.
Limp growth is often a sign of too much water that has caused root rot.
Always allow the soil to dry completely before watering to avoid rotting the roots.
There are several reasons for bud drop, one being irregular watering.
Sudden changes in temperature or light level can also cause bud drop.
Overwatering is more harmful than under-watering.
