Christmas cactus is a wonderful succulent for the winter holidays, famous for its bright flowers, which are released during the darkest time of the year. Although the plant is not luxuriant, the right fertilizer can greatly improve the abundance and duration of flowering. One of the most affordable, easy-to-find natural fertilizers is coffee grounds.
Advantages of coffee grounds:
- they contain a small amount of nitrogen, which promotes the growth of new segments,
- thickets are slightly acidic, and such conditions are particularly suitable for the Christmas cactus,
- they are rich in organic matter, reminiscent of the natural forest environment in which this plant grows in nature.
When used in moderation, thickeners help:
- promote growth,
- highlight the color of the flowers,
- improve root formation,
- improve substrate structure, aeration and moisture retention.
How to fertilize a Christmas cactus with coffee grounds
Although it may be tempting to pour out the coffee grounds after each cup of coffee, this is not recommended. It is important to follow the right schedule and methods. The best time to fertilize: spring and summer — every 4-6 weeks.
Important: wet coffee grounds should not be poured directly on the surface of the ground — they may start to rot.
Method 1: Mixing coffee grounds into the ground
The simplest and safest way.
- Dry the coffee grounds on a plate.
- Mix 1-2 tablespoons of dry solids with 1 glass of earth.
- Mix the mixture lightly into the top layer of the substrate.
- Repeat every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Method 2: Infusion of coffee grounds
A gentle and safe fertilization option.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of coffee grounds with 1 glass of warm water.
- Leave overnight.
- Strain.
- Water with this liquid once a month in spring and summer.
Method 3: Compost with coffee grounds
Long acting, natural way.
- Add the coffee grounds to the compost pile.
- Use mature compost to top up the topsoil in the pot.
When to stop fertilizing a Christmas cactus?
The Christmas cactus has distinct stages of care, so a proper schedule is essential.
During the flowering period, which lasts from the end of November to January, the Christmas cactus does not need to be fertilized. Additional fertilizers during this period can cause buds to drop, shorten the duration of flowering and disturb the natural rhythmicity of the plant.
During the formation of buds, that is, in September and October, it is also important to follow the rules: the last time the Christmas cactus should be fertilized is in early September, and after mid-September, the use of fertilizers must be stopped. This allows the plant to calmly form buds without burdening them with additional nutrients.
Fertilization after flowering is a very important, but often forgotten stage. When the flowers wither, usually between February and March, the plant goes into a resting phase that lasts about four to six weeks. At this time it does not need to be fertilized, watering should be reduced and the plant should be kept in a cooler place at around 12-15°C.
When the rest period ends and new segments begin to grow – usually in late March or April – it is possible to return to fertilizing. Then, it is recommended to feed the Christmas cactus every four to six weeks with a light, growth-promoting fertilizer that contains nitrogen. It is this phase that helps the plant recover from flowering and gather strength for the new season.
I am Jovita, one of the authors of Hitas.lt articles. I have loved to cook since I was a child and I am glad that my mother allowed me to experiment in the kitchen. Favorite dishes are, without a doubt, desserts. I also like to “spin” at home, so I try to provide readers with not only interesting recipes, but also useful tips for home cooking.
