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I. The True Nature of the Christmas Cactus
Despite being classified as a succulent, the Christmas cactus is actually a tropical epiphyte. In nature, it grows not in desert sand, but in the humid, filtered light found clinging to trees and rocks in the Brazilian rainforest. This tropical heritage dictates its care.
Light and Temperature Needs
- Light: Provide ample, bright indirect light. Direct, intense sunlight will scorch the leaves (segments).
- Temperature (General): It thrives in mild conditions, ideally between and ( and ).
- Outdoor Care: It can be kept outdoors during mild summers, but must be brought inside well before any risk of frost or cold temperatures hits (ideally when temperatures drop below ).
- Watering: Treat it like a tropical plant. Water the cactus generously until water drains from the bottom.
- The Crucial Dry Period: Allow the top few inches of soil to completely dry out between waterings to prevent the deadly risk of root rot.
- Humidity: Since it loves humidity, place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. The evaporating water will create the moist micro-climate the plant craves, especially in dry homes.
Soil and Feeding
- Soil: Given that they don’t grow in true soil in the wild, they prefer a well-draining potting mix formulated for succulents or cacti.
- Fertilizer: Only fertilize the Christmas cactus with a balanced feed after the flowering period has finished.
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