Cultivation methods and precautions of Christmas cactus

Schlumbergera is an epiphytic shrub that looks a bit like a cactus. It belongs to the genus Schlumbergera in the family Cactaceae, Caryophyllales, Dicotyledons. Schlumbergera is also called Christmas cactus because it looks like a Christmas tree covered with ribbons after blooming. It is light green, with reddish new stem nodes. The main stem is round and easily lignified. It has many branches and is node-shaped. There are spines on the areoles. Common varieties include bright red, pink, apricot yellow and other colors. Let's take a look at the cultivation methods of Schlumbergera and some things to pay attention to.

Cultivation methods and precautions of Christmas cactus

1. The soil for growing Christmas cactus requires a relatively fertile mixture of leaf mold, peat and coarse sand, and the pH value should be maintained between 5.5-6.5.

2. Do not water Christmas cactus too much, otherwise it will cause root rot. Water it every 3-4 days in the cooler season, and reduce the watering frequency after September. Water it every 1-2 days in hot weather.

3. Christmas cactus needs fertilizer to promote its growth. It is usually fertilized in spring, once a week, and stop fertilizing during high temperature seasons.

4. The cultivation environment of Christmas cactus requires semi-shade and humidity. Avoid scorching sun and rain in summer, and require warmth and sufficient light in winter.

5. Christmas cactus needs to be shaped after the flowers fade, usually in spring and autumn. Cut off the 3-4 stem nodes under the withered flowers, and also remove diseased, old, dense and introverted stem nodes. This is conducive to ventilation and maintenance.