- How do you water Schlumbergera truncata?
- What should be considered when fertilizing?
- Can you prune Schlumbergera truncata?
- When is the Christmas cactus repotted?
- What diseases and pests are there?
- What is the maintenance like in winter?
Schlumbergera truncata is one of the many cultivated forms of the Schlumbergera, which is also known in this country as the Christmas cactus. The care is not very difficult. However, it is not easy to get the cactus to bloom again. Here's how to properly care for it.
Getting Schlumbergera truncata to flower is not easy
How do you water Schlumbergera truncata?
- Water plentifully only in summer
- Avoid waterlogging
- use soft water
- Let the substrate dry in between
From spring to autumn, water Schlumbergera truncata regularly as soon as the substrate has dried up. But never leave water in the saucer or planter, as the Christmas cactus does not tolerate waterlogging.
In winter, the cactus is only poured very sparingly.
What should be considered when fertilizing?
Fertilizing Schlumbergera truncata is not essential. After purchase and repotting, do not fertilize the plant at all.
If it has been in the same soil for a long time, you can give it some liquid fertilizer monthly from April to August. If you use fertilizer for green plants, reduce the dose by half.
Can you prune Schlumbergera truncata?
Cutting isn't necessary, but doesn't hurt either. If the shoots get too long for you, cut them back in spring when the cactus has withered.
Cut shoots can be used for propagation.
When is the Christmas cactus repotted?
In the spring you should check whether the previous pot is still big enough. If necessary, prepare a slightly larger planter with a drainage hole.
Shake off the old soil before repotting the Schlumbergera truncata in fresh substrate.
What diseases and pests are there?
Waterlogging leads to root rot. Pests are very rare.
Falling flowers are due to drafts or frequent moving. If you keep the Schlumbergera truncata in a sheltered location, there is no need to fear that the flowers will drop.
What is the maintenance like in winter?
In winter, Schlumbergera truncata needs a dormant period so that it can develop flowers. Ideally, the temperatures are then between 10 and 15 degrees.
In winter, the Schlumbergera is only slightly poured and not fertilized.
tips
Schlumbergera truncata is a cultivated form of the Christmas cactus, referred to by the botanical name Schlumbergera. There are numerous species, but they do not differ much in terms of care.