How to care for Christmas cactus in winter

illumination

Winter is the flowering period of Christmas cactus. To ensure normal flowering, it must be given sufficient light, 8 to 10 hours of sunshine a day, which can promote the normal differentiation of flower buds, and the flower pot should be turned frequently to allow all parts of the plant to receive even light.

temperature

In winter, as the temperature drops, move the Christmas cactus to a sunny place indoors in time to avoid frostbite. The room temperature is maintained at 21 ℃, and the temperature can be lowered appropriately during flowering to control it at 10~15 ℃. Avoid sudden temperature reduction or large temperature difference.

Watering

Christmas cactus likes moisture, but the rootstock likes dryness, so when watering, we should adhere to the principle of preferring dryness to wetness. The temperature is low in winter and water evaporates slowly, so do not water too much. Water once every 4 to 5 days. Avoid water accumulation in the pot as this may cause root rot. Spray water frequently during the bud stage of the plant to keep the flower stems moist.

Fertilization

In winter, Christmas cactus is forming flower buds and needs sufficient nutrients. In winter, phosphate fertilizer is the main fertilizer, and decomposed liquid fertilizer should be applied every 7 to 10 days. Or spray the leaves with potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution to ensure normal growth of flower buds. During the flowering period, to ensure continuous blooming, apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizers every 10 to 15 days.

prune

Grafted Christmas cactus grows vigorously , and families usually use round brackets to support the drooping nodes. When the plant spreads in all directions, they cut off the uneven nodes and diseased branches. If the flower buds are too dense, they can be thinned out appropriately. Keep one large flower bud on each node and cut off the others. This can reduce nutrient loss and make the flowers bloom beautifully.

During winter care, Christmas cactus often wilts and blooms less. It is necessary to check whether the placement is appropriate and reduce light in time.