Why Won't My Christmas Cactus Flower

Christmas cactus flowers will bloom with appropriate care.

Most gardeners prefer their Christmas cactus to bloom around the holidays, but sometimes its blooms don't make a show. If your Christmas cactus does not bloom, it is not too late to give it some special care to ensure that its vibrant flowers will come out later.

Lighting

Lighting is a factor in how well a Christmas cactus will bloom. The cactus flower is similar to the poinsettia plant in that they both grow well with little light. Place your cactus flower plant in a bright location, such as a window, but do not leave artificial lights on your cactus flower at night.

Temperature

The Christmas cactus plant is very sensitive to temperature and does not like excessive warmth. Temperatures in the 60 degree Fahrenheit range are ideal, but do not allow the temperatures to go over 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Moisture

Cactus flower plants grow better when the soil is relatively dry. Too much water will cause the cactus flower blooms to fall off the plant. A thorough watering every 7 to 10 days will provide sufficient moisture for your cactus flower plant. If the soil feels very moist to the touch, rather than damp, it is not time to water.

References

• Oklahoma State University: The Proper Time to Prune
• University of Nebraska: Care for your Christmas Cactus
• University of Florida: Enviromental Horticulture -- Flowers & Houseplants
• Denver Plants: Christmas Cactus

Resources

• AlexandGregory: Cactus Expert
• North Dakota State University: Questions on Christmas Cactus