In the middle of November, some people are already thinking about what gifts they will buy their loved ones, while others are looking with concern at the Christmas cactus, which has not yet started to sprout its first tassels. If you belong to the second group, see what you can do to encourage the flower to bloom. In addition, we will advise you on which activities to avoid.

The Christmas cactus is a unique plant that came to Slovakia from South America, where it thrives in its natural environment in the shade of the crowns of tall trees that are part of the local rainforests. As a result, the Christmas cactus at home can be quite capricious. However, its charming flowering during the winter season makes up for all the difficulties. However, you must follow a few rules of care.

Christmas cactus – care. Remember these few simple rules

The phenomenon of the Christmas cactus probably lies in the different timing of flowering compared to other commonly grown plants in households. When deciding for it, it is recommended to think carefully about where you want to place it, because a possible change of location could turn out to be a disaster. The capricious flower does not like to change its position – especially when it grows up. The conditions in which it should stay must be close to its natural growth environment, so to speak. Access to diffused sunlight and moist air will be important. Another important issue is irrigation. In general, the rule is that it is better to water than to overflow. The pot in which you will grow the Christmas cactus should be equipped with drainage to prevent the possible accumulation of too much water in the soil, which could lead to rotting of the root system. Experts also recommend using containers with drainage holes. Do not forget that during the dormant period the plant does not require much care. However, it requires more work from you during flowering.

How to water the Christmas cactus? Homemade nutrient solution is ideal

The Christmas cactus grows in natural conditions, when it is spring in Brazil – that is, in Slovakian winter. The first flowers, which are characteristically bell-shaped, begin to form in late November and early December. The flowering period usually lasts several weeks and the plant looks its most beautiful at Christmas. If you want to enjoy the beauty of this original succulent, it is worth adding nutrients based on natural ingredients to its “diet” once a month. You can make one by mixing a small amount of yeast in water.

To prepare the second one, you will need banana peels, which you will cover with warm water and put in a dark place until the next day. Do not forget to dilute the mixture with water in a 1:1 ratio so as not to damage the plant. But don’t forget to start fertilizing at the beginning of November. Interrupting the dormant period, which lasts from September to October, could adversely affect the flowering of the Christmas cactus.

You don’t have to spend money on a Christmas cactus. Do this and you will have seedlings absolutely free