When it comes to repotting a Christmas cactus , opt the right potting soil is crucial for the health and well - being of your plant . I have find that the best case of potting soil to use for a Christmas cactus is one that is specifically formulate for succulent . Succulent potting mixes are contrive to provide excellent drainage , which is essential for preventing source rot .

Root bunk can take place when the soil retains too much moisture , leading to the ancestor becoming waterlogged and eventually rotting . Christmas cacti are native to the tropical rainforest of Brazil , where they grow as epiphytes on trees . As such , they are habitual to well - draining environment and do not brook excessive moisture in their roots .

Using a succulent pot mix ensures that the water drains away quickly , preventing the tooth root from pose in muddy soil . These mix typically contain ingredients such as perlite , gumption , and peat moss , which help to make a light and airy grain that reserve H2O to pass through well .

When repotting your Christmas cactus , it is important to choose a pot that has drain holes at the bottom . This allows excess pee to escape and further helps in forbid overwatering . Additionally , selecting a pot that is slightly larger than the current one will provide way for the works to grow and expand its source system .

Here are some steps to follow when repot a Christmas cactus :

1 . Select a succulent potting commixture : Look for a potting mix specifically label for succulent or cacti . These can be find at garden centers , nurseries , or online .

2 . cook the unexampled pot : pick out a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow for growth . guarantee that it has drainage holes at the bottom .

3 . Gently remove the plant from its current pot : cautiously loosen the antecedent and gently lift the Christmas cactus out of its older mass . Be cautious not to damage the finespun roots or stem .

4 . Inspect the roots : Take a look at the roots and trim away any damaged or rotting sections using clean and sharp pruning shears . This will raise healthy growth in the new pot .

5 . tally potting mixing to the new heap : fill up the Modern potful with the succulent potting mix , leave enough space at the top for the Christmas cactus .

6 . put the plant in the new pot : set the Christmas cactus in the center of the pot , ensuring that it is at the same depth as it was in the previous pot . Gently press the pot mix around the roots to assure the plant in place .

7 . Water light : After repotting , give the Christmas cactus a promiscuous watering to settle the soil . Be careful not to overwater , as this can lead to antecedent rot .

8 . permit for proper drainage : Place the newly potted Christmas cactus in a location where excess water supply can drain away freely . Avoid place it in a disk or dish that can trap body of water .

Remember , it ’s best to repot a Christmas cactus when it is not in bloom or actively growing . Spring or summertime is usually an idealistic time for repotting , as the plant can recover and show itself before the next blooming season .

By using a well - draining succulent potting mix and follow these footfall , you’re able to provide your Christmas cactus with the optimal growing conditions it require to thrive .

Caroline Bates