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This time of year, theChristmas cactusis a natural choice for houseplant enthusiasts.

With proper care, you’re free to ensure these beloved blooms will return year after year.

Learn how and when to properly fertilize a Christmas cactus, with tips directly from a gardening pro.

how often to fertilize christmas cactus

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Meet the Expert

Jennifer Casselsis president of The Blissful Place luxury outdoor feature store.

Do you better Fertilize Christmas Cactus?

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly

When we think of basic houseplant care,wateringandpruningare often the most top-of-mind tasks.

Christmas cactus next to fertilizer and watering can

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly

Over time, houseplants deplete thenutrients in their soil, which can leave them looking drab or unhealthy.

Luckily, this is an issue that can easily be fixed by regular fertilization.

Want more gardening tips?

Pouring fertilizer onto the base of the christmas cactus

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly

After buds begin to form, you’re able to then return it to normal lighting and temperatures.

Once buds do form, you should increase humidity by placing it on apebble trayor settinga humidifiernearby.

Keeping a Christmas cactus in the dark to induce budding

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly