I have a Christmas cactus- also called a zygocactus I think- that refuses to be happy. I have no idea how to care for it. The poor guy looks so close to death. The thing's leaf pieces are wrinkly. Water helps, but only for a day or two. It was shedding limbs for about 2 months, but has now stopped. I have had it since December and I just want it to be healthy. Help please!
2006-08-30 19:47:39 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Home & Garden ➔ Other - Home & Garden
PS- I live in Phoenix. The last cactus we put outside literally burned!
2006-08-30 19:59:22 · update #1
Try looking here -> http://www.fernlea.com/xmas/cactinfo.htm It's got lots of info on Christmas cactus.
2006-08-30 19:53:23 · answer #1 · answered by triviatm 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Wrinkly leaves either it has been overwatered or underwatered. Since watering only revies it for a day or two I think it was proably overwatered or the pot was alloowed to sit in water in the drain dish. I salvaged one by repotting in clean dry cautus mix soil and not watering it for two weeks. It has taken some time but it is coming back. They like to be root bound so don't put it in too large a pot. Use a moisture meter when watering. If the meter reads DRY at the bottom of the pot give it only enough water to wet the top of soil. As you live in a hot climate check each day with the meter.
2006-08-30 22:48:31 · answer #2 · answered by Leslie S 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You needed to put it outside this summer, in a shaded area, and kept moist. I don't know what your climate is like - but if you still have another warm month ahead of you - try letting it outdoors for a month, keep it watered and bring indoors in October if your weather will permit.
2006-08-30 19:55:28 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋