Featured Plant:
Christmas Cactus

While nothing much is happening in our landscapes this time of year, we can always appreciate houseplants -- especially one that’s in full bloom. That’s why we’re recommending Christmas cactus. At Lavalette Nursery, you’ll find dozens of compact plants to choose from, all bearing many colorful blossoms.

Actually, it could be called Thanksgiving cactus too, because in November, it starts producing buds at the tip of each stem. These buds swell and produce blooms unlike any other flowering plant. Depending on the variety, the flowers can be dark red, pure white or many shades of pink, and it blooms when most other plants are sleeping..

The Latin name of this tropical cactus is Schlumbergera bridgesii. It is a hybrid of two plants that grow as epiphytes in the rain forests of South America. The plant is easy to care for, allowing it to provide many years of holiday cheer.

Christmas cactus retains its blooms better in a cooler environment. Keep it clear of radiators, fireplaces and drafts of warm air. Put it where it will receive some natural sunlight, preferably from the morning sun. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves and inhibit blooming.

Don’t be fooled by the “cactus” in its name. This plant prefers a slightly moist soil. Check the plant weekly and water only when the first inch of soil is beginning to dry out.

After your Christmas cactus is through flowering for the season, give it about a one-month rest. Water sparingly and stop fertilizing until new growth begins in spring. Then use a fertilizer specially developed for cacti. Next November, add an indoor plant food high in potash to boost flower production.

Regular pruning in the spring will encourage the plant to branch out where the stem was cut, creating a fuller plant. Once it starts budding, keep the plant in the same location. Changes in light and temperature by moving it around will cause it to drop its buds and flowers.

Repotting Christmas cactus plant is usually only necessary every two to three years, preferably in the spring or early summer. It blooms best when slightly pot-bound.