Q.Christmas cactus
Hi, I have a Christmas cactus that I’ve had for about two years now. I have it on a table that’s a few feet away from a southern facing window. It gets some light from the window and a lamp. It had flowers on it when I got it but haven’t had any since should I move the plant closer to the window? Also it had five segmented leaves when I got it. I started to water it from the top of the pot and I noticed that the fifth segment of leaves died so I started to water it from the bottom inside a tray and let the plant soak up the water but then it looked like it needed more water so I started to water it from the top again and then again I noticed the fourth segment of leaves looks like it could be dying. Should it be watered from a tray and let the plant soak up the water? Or if not how do you water it without killing the leaves? This is my second plant, the first one I got I think I over watered it and it died so that’s why I want to keep this plant healthy. Sorry this is long. Thanks for your help. Debbie
The usual causes of leaf drop are temperature fluctuations, too much or too little water--over watering is the most common cause of loss of leaves and root rot, compacted soil or poorly draining soil,
poor light--partial shade during the summer and a bright light location in winter.
Make sure you actually check the soil, let the first couple inches of soil dry before watering again. Don't water on a schedule.
Here are some great articles that will help you care for your plant.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/christmas-cactus/leaf-drop-on-christmas-cactus.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/christmas-cactus/advice-for-christmas-cactus-care.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/christmas-cactus/christmas-cactus-fertilizer.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/christmas-cactus/christmas-cactus-root-rot.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/christmas-cactus/christmas-cactus-pruning.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/christmas-cactus/repotting-christmas-cactus.htm
