How to Water a Christmas Cactus

Water a Christmas cactus more frequently while it's blooming.

Although the Christmas cactus is a succulent -- a plant family normally associated with requiring less water -- it is not as tolerant of drought as other cacti, according to the University of Minnesota Extension. The plant's water needs change, based on time of year and blooming status. Christmas cactus generally blooms in late fall or early to midwinter. Monitor the moisture of your Christmas cactus' soil to accurately gauge its needs and provide water accordingly.

Instructions

1. Water your blooming Christmas cactus often enough to keep the soil moist, but not wet. Allow water to run off so the cactus does not remain in standing water.

2. Reduce the amount of water given to the Christmas cactus after its blooms fade and fall away. Water well when the soil in the top half of the pot feels dry to the touch.

3. Water the cactus more frequently, as you did while blooming, in the spring when new growth appears.

4. Cut back on the amount of water given to the Christmas cactus at the end of summer. Water when the top half of the soil is dry. This will lower the plant's metabolism and help it store carbohydrates needed for the upcoming blooming season.

5. Increase the water given to the plant when it begins blooming again.

References

• University of Minnesota Extension: Cacti and Succulents
• Purdue University Consumer Horticulture: Care of Christmas Cactus Important After Holidays
• University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension: Caring for Your Christmas Cactus