The Christmas cactus is that plant that surprises us with its colorful flowers during the holiday season, while it's mostly cold and dark outside. But did you know that you can make your cactus bloom even more with a simple pruning trick? Yes, you read that right! Pruning your Christmas cactus is an often overlooked practice, but it plays a key role in how healthy and luxuriant your plant will be. Correct pruning encourages the growth of new shoots, shapes the plant and ensures that it enchants with its flowers every year.
If you think pruning is a task for seasoned gardeners, don't worry - it's a simple and almost therapeutic process that you too can master. It's just a matter of knowing when and how to go about it to make it yours Christmas cactus shone in all its glory. So, get your gardening shears ready, we promise that following these tips your cactus will become the real star of your home!
When to Prune Christmas Cactus?
The best time to prune a Christmas cactus is right after flowering, usually in late winter or early spring. During this period, the plant enters the growth phase, so pruning will stimulate the development of new shoots and bushier growth.
How to properly prune a Christmas cactus?
Preparation of the tool: Use a sharp and clean knife or scissors to prevent the introduction of disease.
Removing knuckles: Gently twist or cut individual knuckles at the end of the stems. You can remove up to a third of the plant to reduce size and encourage branching.
Propagation of cuttings: Leave the cut joints to dry for one to two days, then plant them in a light substrate. With proper care, they will develop roots and become new plants.
Tips for care after circumcision
Watering: Reduce watering after pruning to prevent rot. As the plant adjusts, gradually increase the amount of water.
Light: Place the cactus in a bright spot with indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can damage the leaves.
Fertilization: During the growing season, from spring to early fall, fertilize every two weeks with a flowering plant fertilizer. In winter, fertilizing once a month is sufficient.
With regular pruning and proper care, your Christmas cactus will remain healthy, lush and delight you with its beautiful flowers for many years to come.
