Christmas cacti, unlike many other cacti, can be revived in spring if they are given a short period of time. Christmas cactus can grow back if placed in the east-facing window with plenty of sunlight during the day and 12 hours of darkness each night. The Christmas cactus’ flowers are usually pink or white, and they begin to bloom in December. Christmas Cactus Care Tips. Keep the plant pot-bound in sandy soil. Water only when the soil is completely dry. Over or under watering can lead to root rot or wilting. Provide some humidity to the environment. Don't worry if some of the buds drop off — it's natural for the plant to lose a few. Keep the temperature above 70 degrees Fahrenheit Christmas cactus set buds in fall during cooler days with shorter daylight hours. They need 12 hours of darkness to trick the plant into pushing out buds. Fertilizing Christmas cactus during the spring and summer months allows the plant to produce healthy growth to support the flowers. The plant also stores energy to fuel the production of buds. Christmas cactus can be planted in the ground and kept there all year round in USDA hardiness zones 9 – 11. In climate zone 8 it is possible to grow christmas cactus in the ground during the warmer months but the plant must be uprooted, then potted and moved indoors in winter to protect it from frost. How Long Does It Take For Christmas Cactus To Root. A Christmas Cactus is a popular plant that can easily be propagated. Propagation is the process of taking a cutting of the plant and growing a new one. Although this process can be done in a variety of ways, the most popular is by taking a stem cutting and placing it in water or soil. If you purchase an Easter cactus in the spring, it is most likely already flowering. This cactus should thrive long past its first blooming season. In fact, just like other holiday cacti, it is not uncommon for them to grow for ten years or more. If you received an Easter cactus as a gift, it may have come in a plastic container. How long do cactus flowers last? The length of time a cactus flower will last can vary, but it is typically around one to two weeks. Some types of cactus flowers may only bloom for a few days, while others can last for several weeks. How Long Do Christmas Cactus Blooms Last? Each flower should stay open for five to seven days, depending on the climate. The warmer the area, the faster the blooms will fade. Christmas cactuses bloom in stages, so the flowering period should last for three to six weeks. How to Care for a Blooming Christmas Cactus .

how long do christmas cactus flowers last