CARE FOR CHRISTMAS CACTUS

Once Christmas cacti have finished flowering they need a rest to help them bloom next year. They’re easy to keep but need different treatment to other cacti. When the last flower has dropped, withhold water for about six weeks. They’ll shrivel a little and, if they’re on a bright windowsill, may develop a pink tinge. Give only enough water to prevent severe shrivelling and the pads becoming too thin and dehydrated. Then, give them a good soak so they plump up, keep the compost moist and repot into a slightly larger pot with houseplant compost. Water and feed to encourage new growth.