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PLANT
OF THE MONTH: CHRISTMAS CACTUS As the holidays approach closer, there are many ways to decorate your home and garden. November is a wonderful time to make the “Christmas Cactus” part of your holiday decorations. The "Christmas Cactus" (Schlumbergera bridesii hybrid) belongs to a group of epiphytic cacti native to South America. You may see these vibrant blooming succulents during the holidays, yet you can grow and enjoy the “Christmas Cactus” throughout the year. |
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To make sure your Christmas cactus blooms in time for Christmas, you must keep your cactus in an area that is cool and dry during mid-September to mid-November until flower buds appear. Keep the temperature range of 55-70 degrees F. If temperatures rise higher or lower, then you may encounter blooming problems. In the pre-blooming stage, the Christmas cactus should not receive more than 11 hours of light during the day. It needs to be in a spot that has bright light with no direct sun during the day and uninterrupted darkness at night. You can place a box over it at night to help the process of blooming. When in bloom, water it normally. Be sure to give the plant a rest period after blooming, which means less watering between February and March. |
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You can beautify your home by mixing blooming “Christmas Cactus” with other succulents in decorative containers. Or, use festive baskets filled with red flowering “Christmas Cactus” for a unique look. You’ll be surprised as you invent your own decorations by using this holiday favorite! |
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