Plant is about 25-30 years old. I want to save it!!!!!
I suggest repotting it in a clean container with fresh soil that is well draining, such as for cacti and succulents. Make sure it is not being overwatered. It is easy to propagate, so you might want to start a new plant, too. Here is more:
I have a Christmas cacti that is too big for the pot. Most of the dirt seems gone.
Since it has consumed most of the soil, it should be fine to repot. They don't enjoy frequent repotting. Using good quality cactus and succulent soil, or adding sand and perlite to potting soil is best. Potting up is simple. This article will go over the process in detail:
If I go south for 4 months will my christmas cactus survive in my cool, dark basement with no water?
It might last two months, but four is pushing it. Do you know someone that you could give it to for four months to babysit? If not, I would invest in an automatic watering system with a timer.
I took a small cutting from a gigantic Christmas cactus in my church in July. It rooted well and soon after started sprouting an “arm”. I was very excited to see it thriving. It’s been 6 months now and the “arm “ is longer than its own base, is getting sides and has spikes…. I just don’t know what this thing it’s doing…..the “arm” looks like a totally different type of cactus. Any ideas, thoughts and info welcome and needed!! Should I pinch this thing off???
That looks much like the cousin to the Christmas cactus- Disocactus biformis. This growth will be normal, and I should show both types of growth, along with flowers, at maturity. They are treated the same as their cousin. With this being said, here are some articles that will help:
Can it be fixed and how.House plant
Unfortunately, your photo did not come through. I am unable to see the problem at hand. There are several causes for this, though. This can be overwatering, underwatering, pests, poor lighting, too much lighting, and many other factors.
The best place to start is knowing how to care for the particular plant, exactly. Christmas cacti are not cared for as you would a houseplant or typical cactus. They will not do well with overwatering, or completely drying out. They cannot tolerate full sun, or bright, direct light. They need bright, but filtered light. This can be through a thin shade, or under the canopy of other plants.
The care is not a simple process, and there is a lot to know, but this article will offer information on the plant's care:
and new. I will repot both into a larger pot.
Yes, you can repot them together. Here is how:
I have 2 Christmas cactus which are different colors. I want to plant them both in the same pot. Is that okay?
Yes, that will work. Here is more on its care:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/christmas-cactus/advice-for-christmas-cactus-care.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/christmas-cactus/repotting-christmas-cactus.htm