How to Get Your Easter Cactus to Bloom Again - Easy Tips

Hello and welcome to Brainy Gardener! If you're like me, you probably got an Easter cactus as a gift and were excited to watch it bloom. In this video I'm going to show you how to get your Easter cactus to bloom again using some easy tips.
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RESOURCES & LINKS:
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How to Get Your Easter Cactus to Bloom Again - Easy Tips
https://brainygardener.com/easter-cac...

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Video Timestamps
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0:00 - Introduction
0:58 - Light and Location
1:22 - Watering
1:45 - Temperature
2:02 - Humidity
2:24 - Fertilization
2:34 - Propagation
2:52 - Potting and Repotting
3:21 - Toxicity and Common Pests
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Summary
The Easter Cactus, botanical name Schlumbergera gaertneri, is a cactus species native to southern Brazil. This member of the genus Schlumbergera is closely related to and often confused with two other popular cacti: the Thanksgiving Cactus and the Christmas Cactus. All three cacti have distinctly segmented stems that are each slightly different. There is also some confusion regarding the correct scientific name for this plant. This debate was settled recently after some studies were done into the molecular structure of this species. It was placed in the Schlumbergera Genus as a result. These plants are grown for their gorgeous flowers that bloom around Easter each year.

1. Light and Location
Easter Cactus plants require bright, indirect light to grow. They give the best results when they are placed in a location that receives indirect bright light. Direct sunlight can result in leaf burn. Place them in a bright location with filtered sunlight to replicate their natural habitat. A spot near a window but out of direct sunlight is their best location. A hanging basket by the patio or deck would be perfect if you could manage it.

2. Watering
Easter Cactus plants should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. They hate overwatering, so ensure the soil is well-drained before watering. You can test this with a finger; if the soil is wet, wait a few days before watering again. Ease up on the watering in the winter as the plant enters dormancy.

3. Temperature
Unlike other cacti, Easter Cactus plants prefer cooler temperatures. The ideal temperature range is between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. They can be placed outdoors in the summer months but should be brought back inside before temperatures drop below 50 degrees.

4. Humidity
These plants prefer a humidity level of 50 to 70%. Usually, no special steps are needed to maintain this level as most homes are naturally this humid. But, if the humidity is too low for some reason, you can place the pot on a tray of wet pebbles to increase the humidity around the plant. You can also mist the fleshy leaves to increase moisture levels.

5. Fertilization
Easter Cactus plants should be fertilized with a diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Find the instructions on the label of your specific fertilizer. Do not fertilize in the winter.

6. Propagation
Propagation of these cacti using stem cuttings is the best and proven method. Cut a healthy stem segment from the plant using a sterile tool. Allow the cutting to callus over before planting it in slightly moist soil. Ensure the soil is well-drained and light. Wait for the cutting to take root.

7. Potting and Repotting
The Easter Cactus plant needs repotting after a few years, but some variants grow slightly quicker. When the plant has outgrown its pot, it can be repotted into a pot one size larger. Wait for the flowering season to end before repotting. In this way, you will not lose the flowers, as the process causes stress to the cactus preventing it from blooming. Use a soil mixture specifically for cacti and succulents. The soil needs to be light and fast-draining. If it allows water to stagnate, the plant won’t survive long.

8. Toxicity and Common Pests
Easter Cactus is non-toxic to humans and animals. You can place it around the house without worry. These plants are susceptible to mealybugs and scales. You can control these pests with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Be sure to read the label of the product before use.

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