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Is your Christmas Cactus dropping buds?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Discover the 3 main reasons behind this problem and how to fix it.
Curious?
Let’s uncover the secrets to keeping your cactus blooming!
1. Significant Temperature Swings
Sudden temperature changes, especially cold, can cause a Christmas cactus to drop its buds. Excess heat can also lead to this issue.
If you live in a region with harsh winters, be extra cautious. Frequent exposure to chilly breezes from windows and doors can trigger bud drop, without other noticeable changes in the plant.
Common scenarios include:
- Cold shock during transportation on a cold day.
- Placement near entrance doors in stores or nurseries.
- Positioning near drafty windows, particularly on windy nights.
- Location near exterior doors.
- Proximity to heating sources like radiators and fireplaces.
How to Address
If your Christmas cactus experiences bud drop due to temperature shifts, relocating it is crucial. Ensure it’s in a spot where temperatures range between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Night temps should not drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Find a place near interior walls, away from doors leading outside. Bright yet indirect light is essential too. If you’re comfy with the temperature, your cactus will thrive too.
2. Improper Watering
Watering a Christmas cactus can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re new to it. Despite its name, it’s not a true cactus and has distinct watering needs. Overwatering can cause issues. Make sure the soil stays moist but never waterlogged. Buds may drop if you don’t follow the right watering schedule.
Plant your holiday cactus in fast-draining soil to avoid water retention. Keep an eye on the soil and water when it’s dry to the touch. Never let the plant sit in standing water.
Humidity also plays a big role. Christmas cactuses prefer higher humidity levels than true cactuses. If your home’s humidity is low, increase it by placing a water-filled pebble tray below your plant or using a humidifier. Proper humidity helps prevent bud drop and keeps your cactus healthy.
3. Excessive Movement of the Plant
Moving your Christmas cactus around frequently can lead to bud blast, especially if it’s placed in a high-traffic area. These plants look fantastic wherever they’re put, but plant health should always come first. If you keep it in a different spot during its dormant period, make sure to relocate it to its permanent home as soon as it starts producing buds.
Preventing Bud Drop in Your Christmas Cactus
Stopping bud dropping in your Christmas cactus might be a tough ask. Watch your plant closely and try to figure out why it’s happening.
- Increasing humidity around the cactus can help.
- Moving it to a more suitable spot might prevent future issues.
To get your cactus to bloom, ensure it has the right growing conditions. Keeping a stable environment, feeding it properly, and pruning will support healthy growth and reduce problems.