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Christmas cactus health problems #784811

Asked March 22, 2022, 4:45 PM EDT

Have attached pictures of Christmas cactus I've had for over 10 years. 1 "branch" broke off/died, several others drooping. Don't know if I need to repot, add dirt to this pot, provide nutrients. If nutrients needed-what kind? Thanks for helping. Jane Kozlowski

Crawford County Michigan

Expert Response

Good Morning,

Your plant may be affected by root rot.  A holiday cactus with root rot displays wilted, limp, sagging growth, but an inspection of the roots will tell the tale. Remove the plant gently from its pot. If the cactus is affected by rot, the roots will display blackened tips. You can save your Christmas cactus from root rot if you identify the disease early. If the fungus established itself in the roots of your Christmas cactus it is not possible to save the plant.  If the plant is suffering from root rot, get rid of the soil. Do not plant any seedling in that pot unless you sterilized it. Repotting Christmas cacti in organic, humus-rich soil is important. They also grow better when they are “pot bound,” which means the container and root system are about the same size.  The holiday cactus needs ample humidity, especially when grown in the dry conditions of heated homes during the winter. Feed your holiday cactus monthly with a half-strength, diluted water-soluble fertilizer during the early spring and summer months. Once you've noticed the formation of flower buds—usually late summer or early fall—stop feeding. After the plant blooms, you can resume monthly feedings.

References
How to care for and reflower your Christmas cactus - MSU Extension
The secret to getting a Christmas cactus to bloom: temperature and light - MSU Extension

I hope this helps.  Thanks for using our service.
V/r, Replied March 23, 2022, 11:02 AM EDT
Doreen-

Thanks so much for the info--although is sounds like my Christmas cactus is dying. Plan to take out of pot this weekend & check. Have had it for a long time--but--admit I never fertilized. Didn't realize needed to do that--any particular type fertilizer best?

Jane
On Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 11:02:32 AM EDT, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied March 25, 2022, 1:13 PM EDT
Good Morning,
The Christmas cactus doesn’t need fertilizer while it is blooming. From April to October, fertilize Christmas cactus every two to four weeks as new leaf growth begins. Christmas cacti need extra magnesium, so mix 1 teaspoon Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) per gallon of water and apply it every other watering – not at the same time as fertilizing. Stop fertilizing in late September or early October to encourage flower bud production.

Reference
What Fertilizer Is Best for a Christmas Cactus? (sfgate.com)

Good Luck!!



V/r, Replied March 28, 2022, 8:40 AM EDT

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