Zygocactus 'Christmas Cactus' 6” NURSERY POT ONLY

• Botanical Name: Schlumbergera truncata

• Common Names: Zygocactus, Christmas Cactus
  

• Description: Zygocactus also known as Thanksgiving cactus, holiday cactus, or crab cactus. The crab name refers to the leaf-shaped stem segments that have curved, pointed teeth or claws along the edges. The Easter cactus (Schlumbergera buckleyi) has rounded edges on its leaf segments.
  

Ah, the Christmas Cactus, also known as the Zygocactus! It's a beautiful plant that blooms around the holiday season. Here are some care tips to keep your Christmas Cactus happy and thriving:

1. Lighting: Christmas Cacti prefer bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a window that receives bright, filtered sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as it can lead to leaf burn.

2. Temperature: Christmas Cacti thrive in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). They prefer cooler temperatures at night, around 55-65°F (13-18°C), to encourage blooming.

3. Watering: Water your Christmas Cactus thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. During the blooming period, it's important to keep the soil slightly moist, but not waterlogged.

4. Humidity: Christmas Cacti prefer moderate humidity levels. If the air in your home is dry, you can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier.

5. Fertilizing: Feed your Christmas Cactus with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply the fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the spring and summer months. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant is in its resting phase.

6. Blooming: To encourage blooming, your Christmas Cactus needs a period of darkness for about 12-14 hours a day for 6-8 weeks before the desired blooming time. You can achieve this by placing the plant in a dark room or covering it with a box or cloth.

Remember, the Christmas Cactus is a tropical plant, so it appreciates a bit more moisture than other cacti. With proper care and a little patience, your Christmas Cactus will reward you with beautiful blooms during the holiday season! 🌵🎄