Q.my christmas cactus is withered
My Christmas cactus that I cut some segments off to make new plants are all withered, what can I do? Has anyone come up with this problem?
Help, please.
Do you mean the segments you cut off for rooting are all withered? This would be because they haven't rooted, either because of insufficient moisture in rooting medium, or, more likely, fungus in the cuttings. Very common problem. Next time, use rooting hormone, and try a different rooting medium.
My experience with withered Christmas cactus is usually a sign of one of two things...a virus, or underwatering. If the plant is too dry, soak it at least 8 hours in a container of water that almost covers the soilball, then let it drain. We try to keep ours on the slightly dry side of evenly moist. even though the plant is a cactus, it is a tropical cactus, and cannot tolerate drought. If it isn't too little moisture, the problem possibly is a virus. You would need to take a sample of the plant to your local agricultural extension office for testing.
