What's the Lowdown on Growing a Christmas Cactus Outside?
Queries on whether a Christmas Cactus can thrive outside and guidance on growing this holiday-themed plant outdoors.
Growing a Christmas cactus outside can be a breeze, but with a few proper tips up your sleeve! These popular holiday plants can thrive outdoors in the summer months or year-round, depending on your region. But be mindful, there are some specific care requirements to ensure your cactus blooms beautifully.
Christmas cacti originate from the cool, shady cloud forests of Brazil, so they aren’t, unlike their desert cousins, your typical sun-soakers. They appreciate filtered light, mild humidity, and warmth in moderate levels. Keeping this in mind, let's talk about what your outdoor Christmas cactus needs to stay happy and healthy.
If you're growing other holiday cacti, such as Thanksgiving or Easter cacti, the care tips may be similar. It's worth reading up on both types to better understand their needs and growing patterns.
What's the Perfect Outdoor Home for a Christmas Cactus?
Christmas cacti can be grown year-round outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11, where frost is rare. Elsewhere, you’ll need to keep the plant in a container to bring it back indoors as temperatures drop. Once night-time temperatures reach 50°F (10°C), it's time to head indoors to prevent frost damage.
If your region allows in-ground planting, choose a sheltered site with exceptional drainage. Toss in some compost and loose material to improve the soil's quality. A hanging basket or portable container is more flexible in cooler climates or unpredictable weather.
To up your gardening game, consider Crescent Garden's stylish indoor/outdoor planters, which can be fitted with self-watering inserts for added convenience.
All About Ideal Outdoor Conditions
Growing a Christmas cactus outdoors requires replicating its natural environment. Here's what to keep in mind:
Lighting Needs
Provide bright but filtered light, such as morning sun or dappled shade under a tree or covered patio. Avoid the harsh midday sun, which can scorch the segmented stems. Too much light can lead to reddish or bleached leaves1.
Temperature & Humidity
Maintain the ideal temperature anywhere between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C) during the day. Nighttime temperatures can drop to 45°F (7°C), but avoid freezing temperatures to prevent damage1. In drier climates, consider boosting humidity levels through regular misting or placing the plant near a tray of water and pebbles1.
Adequate Watering
Outdoor plants may dry out quicker, so water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Be sure to use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Caring for a Christmas Cactus in the Great Outdoors: A Comprehensive Guide
Light
- Preferred light: Provide bright but filtered light. Aim for diffused light for about four to six hours per day2.
Temperature
- Daytime temperature: Keep the temperature between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C)1.
- Nighttime temperature: Avoid temperatures below 45°F (7°C) to prevent frost damage1.
Humidity
- Enhancing humidity: In dry climates, mist the plant regularly or place it near a tray of water and pebbles1.
Watering
- Watering frequency: Water the plant when the top inch or two of soil feels dry1.
- Soil drainage: Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging1.
Soil
- Soil composition: Use a slightly acidic, well-draining soil mix that includes potting soil, perlite, and peat moss1. Additionally, if planting outdoors, amend the soil with loose material and compost to improve aeration and drainage1.
Additional Care Considerations
- USDA Hardiness Zones: To thrive outdoors year-round, Christmas cacti need USDA hardiness zones 10 to 111.
- Container choice: Use a container with excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot3.
- Hanging baskets: Shallow containers or hanging baskets are ideal, as they allow the plant to drape over the sides3.
- Acclimation: Gradually introduce the plant to outdoor conditions over several days to prevent shock3.
- Repotting: Repot every three to four years in the spring using a well-draining mix to promote healthy growth and flowering3.
By carefully considering the guidelines above, you ensure your Christmas cactus has a happy outdoor life, bursting with vibrant blooms!
Sources:
- Incorporating gardening into your home-and-garden lifestyle, a Christmas cactus can thrive outdoors year-round in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11.
- To maintain the lifestyle of a home-and-garden enthusiast, consider designing your garden with suitable planters for both indoor and outdoor use, such as Crescent Garden's stylish planters.
