Watering a Christmas cactus requires a bit of sensitivity. During the flowering period, the cactus needs more water than when it is dormant. Too much watering is harmful and will cause diseases to develop, leaves to droop, or the Christmas cactus to die completely.
How should you properly water a Christmas cactus?
When watering a Christmas cactus, make sure to water it regularly during the flowering period to maintain a slightly moist root ball. During the growth phase, only water when the substrate is 2-3 cm dry at the top, and only water moderately during the rest period.
Watering during the growth phase
From the end of the flowering period until the end of September, the Christmas cactus is only watered when the substrate at the top is two to three centimeters dry. Do the thumb test!
Water so that the root ball is completely moistened and can then dry again.
Watering Christmas cactus during flowering
From November until the end of the flowering period, water the Christmas cactus regularly so that the root ball is always slightly moist. But never leave water standing in the saucer.
Watere only very moderately during rest periods
In October, make the Christmas cactus darker so that many flowers develop. During this time the plant is only watered moderately. The root ball may only be moistened, but should not dry out completely.
Place the Christmas cactus outside in a protected place
The Christmas cactus likes to go outdoors in summer. However, you must protect it from too much moisture from rainwater. It is best to place it under a ledge. Do not use coasters or planters that could collect water.
If it is very dry in summer, check whether the root ball is still moist enough and water accordingly.
Tip
When watering and spraying Christmas cacti, you should use rainwater if possible. Low-calcium tap water is also possible. If the water is too hard, boil it or let it stand for at least a week.
