December Houseplant of the Month: Christmas Cactus

New Leaf
Dec 3, 2025
3 min read

*Receive 10% Off all Christmas Cactus all December long!*

The holidays are here, and so are those cheery blooms! Our Houseplant of the Month is the Christmas Cactus—a long-lived, low-maintenance classic that bursts into color just when your home is craving it most. With arching segments and vivid flowers (pink, red, white, peach, or magenta), this beauty brings instant festive vibes—no string lights required.

Why We Love It

Seasonal showstopper: Naturally blooms around December.
Gifter’s dream: Easy care + blooms for weeks.
Pet-considerate: Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Heirloom potential: With simple care, these plants can thrive for decades.

Light

Best: Bright, indirect light (near an east or north window).
Avoid: Harsh midday sun on the segments (can yellow or scorch).

Water

While budding/blooming: Keep soil evenly moist, never soggy.
Between blooms: Water when the top 1" of soil is dry.
Drainage matters: Always use a pot with a drainage hole.

Humidity & Temperature

Humidity: Moderate to high is ideal—bathrooms and kitchens are great, or cluster with other plants.
Temps: 60–70°F by day; slightly cooler nights help buds hold.
Drafts: Keep away from vents, heaters, and exterior doors.

Soil & Potting

Soil: Light, well-draining mix (cactus/succulent blend + a bit of orchid bark or perlite).
Repotting: Every 2–3 years in spring, or when roots gently fill the pot.
Pot size: Snug is good—too much soil = wet feet.

Feeding

After bloom (spring–early fall): Feed monthly with a balanced, diluted fertilizer.
During bloom & late fall: Skip fertilizer; let the show happen.

How to Encourage (or Re-Encourage) Blooms

Short days, cool nights: In fall, give ~14 hours of darkness and cooler nights (55–65°F) for 4–6 weeks.
Consistent placement: Once buds appear, don’t move the plant—shifts in light or temperature can cause bud drop.
Even moisture: Keep soil lightly moist and the air comfortably humid.

Common Troubleshooting

Bud drop: Usually drafts, sudden moves, overly dry soil, or big temp swings. Stabilize location, raise humidity, water evenly.
Yellowing segments: Too much direct sun or overwatering—pull back on both.
Shriveled, limp segments: Usually underwatering—water thoroughly and let excess drain.
No blooms: Not enough darkness/cool nights in fall, or bright light is too low.

Post-Bloom TLC (January–March)

Let the plant rest: slightly less water for 3–4 weeks.
Light stays bright-indirect; resume monthly feeding in spring.
Prune for shape after flowering by twisting off a segment at the joint—use these to propagate!

Easy Propagation

Take 2–3 segment cuttings after bloom.
Air-dry ends 24 hours, then place in moist mix.
Bright-indirect light; roots form in a few weeks.

Styling Tips

Mantel magic: Pair with cedar, pinecones, and brass accents.
Table centerpiece: Pop into a ceramic cachepot with a ribbon.
Gift-ready: Add a care card and bow—done!

Quick Care Card (copy for your notes)

Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Top 1" dry; keep evenly moist in bloom
Humidity: Medium–high
Temp: 60–70°F; cooler nights ok
Bloom tip: 4–6 wks of longer nights + cooler temps in fall
Do not move once buds set

Ready to bring one home?

We’ve got fresh Christmas Cactus in stock, plus pots, ribbons, and gift wrap. Want a festive combo? Ask us to pot yours with a holiday pick and bow for easy gifting.

Order & Questions: (304) 289-5089

Visit: New Leaf Greenhouse & Market, Burlington, WV

Pickup or Local Delivery available