Like always, the tradition of writing an article on the Christmas cactus in winter continues.
This is a very special plant for me because my grandma gave me one right before she passed away 4 years ago, and ever since then, I’ve made it my duty to put out something related to Christmas cacti whenever winters arrive.
This time around, we’ll be discussing the right way to water a Christmas cactus without drawing in unwanted root rot. Let’s jump straight into it!
Yes, There’s A Right Way To Water Your Christmas Cactus!
Before we go into deeper details, let’s first discuss the fact that there is a “right way” to water your Christmas cactus, and poor watering habits are perhaps the number one reason why Christmas cacti suffer.
Due to them being tropical epiphytes, Christmas cacti dislike both soggy soil and bone-dry conditions, meaning you can’t just underwater or overwater your way out of it. You’ll need to be deliberate to properly care for them.
For a full month-by-month outline of what your cactus needs, check out christmas cactus care calendar: the routine for on-time blooms.
So, First You Need To Understand What This Plant Really Needs
Despite having cactus in the name, the Christmas cactus is nothing like a typical desert cactus.
The Christmas cactus is actually native to rainforests, where it often grows attached to tree trunks where the mix is loose, airy, and fast-draining, more like orchid soil than desert sand.
Christmas cacti are big on moisture, but it’s moisture and not sogginess. Avoid overwatering the plant and creating a wet, sloppy mess because it will likely ruin the plant’s root system.
The Right Way To Water A Christmas Cactus
Although caring for a long-lived succulent is a very complex subject, we can break down their needs and the procedure of fulfilling them to make things relatively simpler.
If the surface of the soil feels wet to the touch, hold your horses!
DO NOT blast your Christmas cactus with a harsh jet fire water hose! Pour water slowly or even sprinkle for better distribution.
Always empty saucers or decorative sleeves after watering! Standing water under the pot is the quickest path to root rot.
Many gardeners (me included) opt for bottom watering for houseplants like Christmas cacti since it essentially allows the roots to absorb moisture from the bottom basin and not get wet near the surface.
My Favorite Seasonal Watering Routine
And if your buds start to drop before blooming, check out why are my christmas cactus dropping buds? Causes and solutions.
Should You Water Christmas Cacti From The Top Or Bottom?
This is one question that has no definite “right answer” because both methods work well for different gardeners in different conditions.
For bottom watering to work effectively, place your Christmas cactus pot in a shallow tray of water for 15-20 minutes. Then, take it out and let it drain properly.
How Would You Know If You’re Overwatering Your Christmas Cactus?
Well, like any other plant that’s stressed and in discomfort, your Christmas cactus will likely begin to show signs pretty quickly.
Yellowing leaves, soft and dark stems, a sharp musty odor, and stunted growth are some pretty clear signs that root rot is setting in from excess moisture and poor drainage.
The soil might start to smell sour or musty, a clear sign of anaerobic, waterlogged conditions.
If your cactus looks limp or unhealthy, it might not just be overwatering, take a look at why is your christmas cactus wilting? Causes and simple fixes.
Let’s Conclude
If your cactus has finished blooming and you’re thinking about giving it a trim, here’s a helpful guide on signs it’s time to prune your christmas cactus.
In my years growing Christmas cacti in different places and ways, I found them to be quite a misunderstood houseplant, especially when it comes to watering.
And remember, it’s always better to slightly underwater a Christmas cactus than to overwater it.
New gardeners aren’t experienced enough to pick up on signs of trouble, and wise gardeners aren’t talking about the basics, such as proper watering. You’re lucky you came across this article in time! Now put your newfound Christmas cactus watering knowledge to use and make me proud!
and if you ever want to multiply your plant, here’s how to propagate a christmas cactus: a step-by-step guide. It’s actually super easy and fun!
