Q.Need Help Quickly With Newly Purchased Christmas Cactus Starter Plants.
Recently purchased a color variety of 2-inch Christmas cactus plants online. Planted in cactus mix and watered lightly (no water drained into the dish below), then watered again conservatively a little more about a week later. Placed them in front of a window near other plants that have a grow light more directly over them so a bit of the grow light residual could benefit the cactus. Humidity here is often 60–70% or more in the mornings and drops to high 30%–40% later in the afternoon. Do I still need a water dish under the plant pot? Some of the cactus are now dropping leaves, looking wilted and/or dropping larger broken stems/sections. What is wrong? What should I be doing differently? This is my first experience with Christmas cactus.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Christmas cactus is a succulent but it has different watering needs than the typical succulent. In spring and summer, water regularly, but allow it to dry between waterings. Drainage holes are important. When watering, let the water drain from the container and throw out any that collects in a tray. In fall and winter, cut back on water.
If they are in front of a window, they shouldn't need additional grow light. In fact, filtered light is better than direct sun. Your room humidity seems adequate so a pebble tray is not needed.
These articles should help with their care:
https://sacmg.ucanr.edu/Christmas_cactus/
