How to Make Thanksgiving Cactus Bloom on Time

Without those vivid-colored blooms, your Thanksgiving cactus will look dull. Don’t worry; we have excellent gardening tips to make your cactus bloom earlier, on time, and beyond.
Thanksgiving cactus usually blooms from late fall through winter, making it a perfect holiday decoration. You can expect flowers around Thanksgiving, with the blooming period lasting 7-8 weeks. And with the right care, you might even enjoy a second bloom in spring!
To ensure your Thanksgiving cactus blooms beautifully, start by controlling the light. Place your cactus near an east-facing window where it gets indirect sunlight. It also needs 12 hours of darkness each night, so consider moving it to a dark spot or covering it at night during the fall.
Next, adjust your watering routine as the weather cools down. Let the soil dry out between waterings, about every 2-3 weeks. This slight stress can help trigger bud formation, but be careful not to let it dry out completely.
For fuller blooms, consider pinching back the growing tips after the summer bloom. This will encourage bushier growth and more flowers when the blooming season comes around again.
Temperature is also key. Keep your cactus in a warm spot, around 70-80°F, from spring to fall. Once buds start forming, make sure the temperature doesn’t go above 90°F to prevent them from dropping.
Lastly, fertilize wisely. Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer during the growing season in spring and summer, but stop by mid-September to encourage blooming. You can start fertilizing again in early spring after the flowers have faded.
By following these steps, you’ll have a Thanksgiving cactus in full bloom, ready to brighten up your holidays. Let us know how it goes in the comments, and don’t forget to like and subscribe for more gardening tips. Happy gardening!