Because Christmas cactus plants are so easy to care for, it is not uncommon for a Christmas cactus to eventually grow to a monstrous size. While this is lovely to see, it can create problems for a homeowner with limited space. At this time, an owner may wonder if pruning a Christmas cactus is possible and exactly how to trim a Christmas cactus.
Christmas cactus pruning is not just for large plants, either. Pruning a Christmas cactus, large or small, will help it to grow fuller and more bushier, which in turn results in more blooms in the future. So whether you are looking to simply reduce the size of your plant or are looking to make yours look even more beautiful, keep reading to learn more about how to trim a Christmas cactus.
Christmas cactus is relatively low-maintenance in spite of its exotic origins, but it does have a few basic growing requirements.
Sunlight
Place Christmas cactus in bright, indirect light. In other words, put it near a sunny window, but not on a sill where it may be scorched.
Water
Christmas cactus needs regular irrigation, but too much moisture may cause root rot or leaf drop. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, stopping only when water trickles through the drainage hole. Wait a few minutes, then pour off any water that remains in the drainage saucer.
Temperature
Christmas cactus performs best in temperatures between 65 and 70 F. (18-21 F.) during the day and 55-65 F. (13-18 C.) at night. Place the plant away from hot air or cold drafts.
Fertilization
Feed Christmas cactus monthly from late spring to early fall. Use a general-purpose fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Pruning
Trim your Christmas cactus to create a fuller, bushier plant about a month after blooming, but never prune a Christmas cactus after late spring. To prune the plant, just pinch off one or more of the sections. Replant them in a separate pots if you want to create new plants.
Repotting
Don’t be in a hurry to repot. As a general rule of thumb, once every three years is sufficient because Christmas cactus likes to be a little crowded. Repot in spring, after blooms have completely wilted and new growth is emerging. Never repot a blooming plant.
