Schlumbergera truncata is one of the many cultivated forms of Schlumbergera, which is also known in this country as the Christmas cactus. Caring for it is not very difficult. However, it is not easy to get the cactus to bloom again. How to care for it properly.
How do I properly care for the Schlumbergera truncata?
Schlumbergera truncata care includes regular watering without waterlogging, occasional fertilizing, spring pruning and repotting if necessary. In winter, the Christmas cactus needs a rest period with cooler temperatures, less watering and no fertilizing.
How do you water Schlumbergera truncata?
- Only water abundantly in summer
- Avoid waterlogging
- use low-lime water
- Allow the substrate to dry occasionally
From spring to autumn, water Schlumbergera truncata regularly as soon as the substrate has dried on top. But never leave water standing in the saucer or planter, as the Christmas cactus cannot tolerate waterlogging.
In winter the cactus is only watered very sparingly.
What should you pay attention to when fertilizing?
Fertilizing Schlumbergera truncata is not absolutely necessary. After purchasing and repotting, do not fertilize the plant at all.
If it has been standing in the same soil for a long time, you can give it some liquid fertilizer (€6.00 on Amazon) every month from April to August. If you use fertilizer for green plants, reduce the dose by half.
Are you allowed to prune Schlumbergera truncata?
Cutting is not necessary, but it doesn't hurt either. If the shoots become too long, shorten them in spring when the cactus has finished flowering.
Cutted shoots can be easily used for propagation.
When will the Christmas cactus be repotted?
In spring you should check whether the current pot is still big enough. If necessary, prepare a slightly larger planter with a drainage hole.
Shake off the old soil before repotting the Schlumbergera truncata into fresh substrate.
What diseases and pests occur?
Waterlogging causes root rot. Pests are very rare.
Flowers falling off are due to drafts or frequent moving. If you care for Schlumbergera truncata in a protected location, there is no need to worry about flower drop.
What does winter care look like?
In winter, Schlumbergera truncata needs a rest period so that it can develop flowers. Ideally the temperatures are between 10 and 15 degrees.
In winter, the Schlumbergera is watered only slightly and not fertilized.
Tip
Schlumbergera truncata is a cultivated form of the Christmas cactus, which is referred to by the botanical name Schlumbergera. There are numerous types, but they do not differ in terms of care.
