Noticing limp leaves on your Christmas Cactus?
Don’t worry! There are common reasons for this.
Uncover 3 main causes and learn how to fix them.
Ready to revive your cactus?
Let’s get started!
1. Overwatered Plant
An excess of water can make the leaves of your Christmas cactus go limp. One way to identify overwatering is by checking the soil. If the soil appears dark and mushy and you haven’t watered recently, it’s likely overwatered.
Sometimes, water will pool around the base of the plant as the soil can’t absorb it all. Untreated, this issue can make the leaves yellow and could lead to root rot.
Addressing and Preventing Overwatering in Christmas Cactus
If leaves are limp but not yellow or wilted, let your plant drain well. Place it in bright, indirect light and avoid watering until the soil becomes completely dry. Avoid putting your Christmas cactus in direct sunlight as it can cause further harm.
Should your Christmas cactus display yellow leaves or emit a foul smell, the best remedy is to repot it.
To avoid overwatering in the future, establish an ideal watering schedule. Water the plant only when the soil feels dry and ensure proper drainage.
2. Underwatered
Reviving a Thirsty Christmas Cactus
When your Christmas cactus is underwatered, its leaves may appear limp, shriveled, or wrinkled. This happens because the plant lacks the necessary moisture.
The easiest way to identify if your cactus is underwatered is by inspecting the soil. Completely dry, light brown, and crumbly soil indicates a need for more water.
Underwatering may not be as severe as overwatering, but it’s crucial to address it promptly. The quicker you act, the faster your plant will recover and show new, healthy growth.
How To Rehydrate a Thirsty Christmas Cactus
Start by giving your Christmas cactus a substantial soak. You might need to water it more frequently for a while until it bounces back to full health.
During the growing season, make sure to increase the watering frequency. This is because the plant requires extra energy and strength for new growth.
3. Rootbound
When the roots of your Christmas cactus outgrow their pot, the plant can struggle to take in water, causing the leaves to become limp.
Fixing a Rootbound Christmas Cactus
The most effective method to address this issue is repotting. Begin by carefully removing your Christmas cactus from its current container and gently shaking off as much soil as possible from the roots.
Next, detangle the roots with caution to avoid damaging them. Once the roots are freed, check them thoroughly for any signs of pests or diseases.
Choose a new pot that is about 2 inches wider in diameter than the old one. Refreshing the potting soil will provide much-needed nutrients for your cactus.
If you want to propagate your Christmas cactus, you can divide the root ball and plant the sections separately.
Prune any growth that appears discolored, diseased, or damaged to help your plant thrive.
Following these steps can ensure your Christmas cactus has vibrant, healthy leaves and is ready for the festive season.