With its stunning blooms reaching up to four inches long, the Christmas cactus (botanically known as *Schlumbergera*) is a total showstopper for your holiday decor. But if you want to see those spectacular flowers, you’ve got to give it the right spot and a little TLC.
Where is the best spot for a Christmas cactus?
Since these beauties are native to South America, they love a warm spot with plenty of humidity—just like their natural habitat. While they appreciate a bright room, they aren’t big fans of direct sunlight, which can scorch them. Your best bet is a spot with partial shade or filtered light.
Should I keep my Christmas cactus in the same spot year-round?
Generally, these plants are homebodies and like to stay put, but their needs do change throughout the year. If you can’t adjust the environment in their usual corner, you might need to move them for a few weeks. This is especially important during their rest phase; without this “nap,” your Christmas cactus won’t bloom.
Where should it go during its rest phase?
When it’s time for the plant to rest, it needs to be a few degrees cooler than usual. Aim for temperatures around 60°F (15°C). Just make sure it never drops below 50°F (10°C). During this time, stop fertilizing entirely and only water just enough to keep the soil from drying out completely.
Can I put my Christmas cactus outside?
If your summer is warm enough, your Christmas cactus will actually enjoy a little “vacation” in the garden or on the balcony. They prefer temperatures up to about 73°F (23°C) and relatively high humidity.
However, if your local summer is particularly cool or dry, the conditions might not be ideal. You definitely want to avoid anything below 50°F (10°C), as the chill is really hard on them. Make sure to bring your plant back into the cozy warmth of your home well before the first autumn frost hits.
Quick Summary:
- Ideal spot: Bright and warm, but away from harsh, direct sun.
- During the rest phase: A few degrees cooler than usual, with at least 12 hours of darkness.
- Temperature check: Never let it drop below 50°F (10°C).
- Pro tip: Don’t move the plant once buds have formed or while it’s blooming!
Quick tip: The warmer the room, the more water your cactus will need—just be careful to avoid “wet feet” (standing water), as they hate soggy roots.
