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Why is my cactus leaves turning red?
Red or purple-tinged foliage and wilting are two common symptoms of a magnesium deficiency, which is a common ailment in Christmas cacti. It occurs mainly during the winter months when feeding and watering are restricted and cold temperatures slow the plant's nutrient uptake.
What are the signs of overwatering a Christmas cactus?
In case you didn't remember to do this, one of the first overwatering symptoms on Christmas cactus will be limp leaves, which will start to drop off. Then the stems and branches will soften and get mushy. Severe cases will manifest with a foul odor and the stem will rot completely off.
Why is my Christmas cactus turning maroon?
The four most likely reasons for purple-hued discoloration are: bright light, inappropriate moisture, nutrient deficiency, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Let's consider these stressors and how to avoid them.
What does an unhealthy Christmas cactus look like?
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.
How often should a Christmas cactus be watered?
every 2-3 weeksHow to Care for Christmas Cacti. Plan to water every 2-3 weeks, but only water when the top one third of soil feels dry to the touch. For example, if the plant is in 6 inches of soil, water when the top 2 inches feel dry.
How do you perk up a Christmas cactus?
Wilted or limp Christmas cactus is sometimes caused by a lack of water or too much direct sunlight. If you've neglected to water the limp Christmas cactus, begin by giving the plant a limited drink. Continue to water sparingly every few days until the soil is lightly moist.
What does Epsom salt do for Christmas cactus?
ANSWER: Epsom salts can make blooms bigger on a plant, but it's not going to produce flowers. What your plant probably could use is some regular fertilization. Generally, you need to fertilize in spring and summer. Then let the plant get some rest in October and November for a while.
How much sunlight does a Christmas cactus need?
about 8 hoursA Christmas cactus does not need direct sun, but does need about 8 hours of indirect, bright light in order to form flowers. Full sun can burn or fade the leaves, and cause them to wilt.
How do you care for a Christmas cactus indoors?
Avoiding Problems With Christmas Cactus HealthMaintain the correct light/dark schedule. ... Don't water too much. ... Don't water too little. ... Make sure the plant gets enough indirect sunlight but keep it out of direct sunlight. ... Keep the plant away from direct heat sources, like a fireplace or heating vent.
How do you treat red leaves on Christmas cactus?
If the leaves of your Christmas cactus are turning red or pink, it may be getting too much sun, or it may not be getting watered enough. Solution: If your Christmas cactus is right next to a window that gets direct sun during the day, move it back. They can take a bit of sun, but they prefer indirect light.
Where should I place my Christmas cactus?
Holiday cacti grow best when they are placed in a location with partial shade, such as an east or west facing window, with a temperature between 70° and 80℉.
How long does a Christmas cactus live?
100 yearsThe Christmas cactus is everywhere during the holiday season, with good reason. It's a blooming succulent that is easy to care for, has gorgeous flowers, and when properly tended can live up to 100 years! That's right! This plant can survive for decades, adding color to your holidays for generations.
Do you water a Christmas cactus from the top or bottom?
Experts recommend watering Christmas cactus from the bottom rather than on top. With this method, you can be sure that your plant is getting enough water every time because it will soak into their roots and reach all of them.
When should I stop watering my Christmas cactus?
Stop watering around October. This watering schedule will prep your plant to bloom around Christmas. The only other time you should stop watering is after the plant blooms. At this time, cease watering for about 6 weeks to let the plant rest. New growth will still appear–and that's when you can start watering again.
Should I water my Christmas cactus while it's blooming?
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist while your plant is blooming, misting it frequently. Light: Place the cactus in an east-facing window for moderate light and some direct sun. Fertilization: Apply a high-potassium fertilizer every two weeks once buds form.
How do you know when a cactus needs water?
The easiest way is to simply stick your finger in the pot. Make sure you go down at least two inches (often times the surface can be dry when the dirt underneath isn't). If it feels wet, damp, or even a little colder than the surface – don't water.