Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata
Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata
Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata
Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata
Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata
Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata
Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata
Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata
Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata
Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata
Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata

Introducing the Thanksgiving cactus, also known as Schlumbergera truncata, which is a unique and beautiful cactus that blooms around the Thanksgiving holiday in late fall.It is a member of the cacti family, but unlike other cacti, it lacks spines. Instead, it has a flattened, segmented stem that can grow up to 24 inches long and wide and is also arranged in a cascading manner, creating an attractive hanging or trailing effect.


The Thanksgiving flowers are truly captivating and are a beautiful symbol of gratitude and celebration during this time of year.

There are actually two more types of Thanksgiving cacti. One has red flowers and is called the Red Thanksgiving cactus, while the other has white flowers and is called the White Thanksgiving cactus.

These beautiful cacti blooms are a delightful sight that brings joy and warmth to the holiday season.

The Thanksgiving cactus is also known as a false Christmas cactus plant, zygocactus, holiday cactus, crab cactus, crab plant, and winter cactus.

This plant is one of three common holiday cacti that are frequently confused with one another: the Thanksgiving cactus, the Christmas cactus, and the Easter cactus.For additional information regarding the distinctions between these holiday cacti, please read our article.

Whether used as a centerpiece or simply enjoyed as a potted plant, the Thanksgiving cactus flowers are a lovely reminder of the festive spirit and the beauty of nature.

General Tips for Growing a Thanksgiving Cactus

  1. Place your Thanksgiving cactus in a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can harm the Thanksgiving plant's leaves.
  2. Keep your cactus in a temperature range of 60-70°F. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperature fluctuations.
  3. Water your Thanksgiving cactus when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Make sure to allow any excess water to drain out, as the cactus doesn't like to sit in water.
  4. Thanksgiving cacti prefer higher humidity levels. You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or misting it occasionally.
  5. If your cactus becomes too leggy or unruly, you can prune it back after it finishes blooming. This will help promote a more compact and tidy shape.
  6. Thanksgiving cacti typically bloom in late fall or early winter. To encourage blooming, provide a period of cooler temperatures (around 50-55°F) and reduce watering in the weeks leading up to the desired bloom time.

Thanksgiving Cactus Flowers - Blooming Tips

Thanksgiving cactus flowers are truly stunning and can bring a burst of color to your space. These beautiful blooms typically appear in shades of pink, red, or white. One interesting thing about Thanksgiving cactus flowers is that they can produce multiple flowers from a single areole. This means that you can enjoy a cluster of lovely blossoms on one stem, creating a captivating display.

The Thanksgiving cactus most commonly blooms in the late fall, while the Christmas cactus blooms in early to late winter, and the Easter cactus blooms in the early spring.

If you don't have a suitable bright location, don't worry! The Thanksgiving cactus can tolerate lower light conditions but may not flower as abundantly. The Thanksgiving cactus blooms in response to changes in light and temperature. As the days get shorter and the temperatures cool down, it signals the plant to produce buds and, eventually, flowers. So, the combination of shorter days and cooler temperatures triggers the Thanksgiving cactus to bloom.

In fact, a period of darkness for about 12-14 hours a day for 6-8 weeks in the fall can encourage blooming. Once flower buds form, move the Schlumbergera truncata to a bright, draft-free window. 

Thanksgiving Cactus Care

The Thanksgiving cactus native to Brazil's tropical and subtropical regions, is an epiphyte that grows naturally from trees and branches in jungle environments. It's easy to keep happy indoors and doesn't require too much light or attention. Care differs significantly from other desert cacti, and there are some important things to consider when caring for this popular holiday cactus.

When and How to Water Your Thanksgiving Cactus 

When it comes to watering the Thanksgiving holiday cactus, it's important to find the right balance.It needs a bit more watering as compared to other regular cacti. Overwatering tropical plants can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the Thanksgiving plants to become dehydrated.

A good rule of thumb is to water the Thanksgiving cactus when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Be sure to use well-drained soil to prevent water from sitting at the roots. When watering, give your Thanksgiving Christmas cacti a thorough soak, allowing the excess water to drain out of the pot.

During the growing season, which is typically early spring to fall, you can water the Thanksgiving cactus more frequently. However, during the dormant period in late fall, it's best to reduce watering to allow your Thanksgiving cactus to rest.

Remember, it's always better to underwater than overwater. So, keep an eye on the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Your Thanksgiving cactus will thrive with just the right amount of hydration!

Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Thanksgiving Cactus

The Thanksgiving cactus is a popular houseplant because it can handle bright, indirect light. When growing indoors, place it near an east-facing window where it can receive bright morning or evening sun, but be cautious of direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, as it can scorch the leaves.

If you don't have a suitable window with bright, indirect light, you can also grow the Thanksgiving cactus Schlumbergera truncata under fluorescent lights. This can be a great option if you live in a location with limited natural light or sun indoors or during the winter months when daylight hours are shorter.

The Thanksgiving cactus is a fantastic choice for offices because it can tolerate fluorescent light, which is often found in office settings. Its beautiful blooms can bring a pop of color and cheer to the workspace, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. Plus, it's relatively low-maintenance, making it perfect for busy office environments.

For outdoor cultivation, it can grow best in full sun to partial shade. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn yellow or pale, while insufficient light can result in weak growth and fewer Thanksgiving cactus blooms. So, aim for a spot with bright, indirect light, and your Thanksgiving cactus will thrive and reward you with its beautiful blooms!

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

When it comes to soil, the Thanksgiving cactus favors very airy, sandy potting soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and, most likely, root rot. The Thanksgiving cactus thrives on tree branches in its native habitat, feeding on the organic debris that decomposes off the bark. Thanksgiving cacti should, therefore, be cultivated as houseplants in a potting mix that is acidic in pH, humus-rich, and airy. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized cactus potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your holiday cactus thrive.

As for fertilizing, the Thanksgiving cactus benefits from occasional feeding once a year during the growing season in the spring. You can use a balanced, NPK water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for Schlumbergera truncata cacti to bloom.

During the dormant period in early fall and winter, it's best to reduce or stop fertilizing altogether. This allows your holiday cactus to rest and prepare for the upcoming blooming season. With the right soil and proper fertilization, your Thanksgiving cactus will stay healthy and vibrant!

Hardiness Zone & More

The Thanksgiving cactus is an epiphytic plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors. When grown indoors, it prefers a moderate temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you live in a USDA zone 10 to 11, you can grow these Thanksgiving beauties outdoors. Which includes regions with mild winters and warm climates. It can tolerate freezing temperatures as low as 50°F, but it's best to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.

In terms of humidity, the Thanksgiving cactus prefers moderate humidity levels. It can tolerate average indoor humidity, but it's important to avoid excessively dry conditions. You can increase humidity around your Schlumbergera truncata by placing a tray filled with water near it or by using a humidifier.

So, no matter where you live, as long as you provide the right temperature, humidity, and care, your Thanksgiving cactus will be happy and healthy!

Propagating Thanksgiving Cactus

Thanksgiving cactus Schlumbergera truncata, you can take stem cuttings. Simply snip off healthy stem segments of your holiday plant, making sure it has a few segments and at least one areole. Let the cutting dry for a few days until the cut end forms a callus. Then, place the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it lightly moist. With proper care and patience, the cutting will develop roots and grow into a new Thanksgiving cactus. It's a fun and rewarding way to expand your cactus collection!

Key Takeaways

  1. The Thanksgiving cactus plants are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, making them perfect for busy people or those new to plant parenthood.
  2. It produces stunning flowers in shades of pink, red, white, and bi-colored, which bloom around the holiday season, adding a pop of color and a festive touch to your space.
  3. Like other plants, it helps purify the air by removing toxins and pollutants, promoting a healthier indoor environment.
  4. With proper care, it can live for many years, and its flowers can last for several weeks, providing a long-lasting display of beauty.
  5. Thanksgiving cactus plants are simple to propagate through stem cuttings, allowing you to share plants with friends and family or expand your own collection.
  6. Consider adding a Thanksgiving cactus plant to your space, available for purchase at your local nursery or online plant retailer, to bring beauty, freshness, and joy to your home!
Bloom Season Late fall, early winter
Botanical Name Schlumbergera truncata
Common Name Thanksgiving cactus, crab cactus, winter cactus, holiday cactus
Dormancy Winter
Family Cactaceae
Flower Color Pink
Genus Schlumbergera
Growth Habit Trailing, hanging
Growth Rate Moderate
Hardiness Zone 10, 11, 12
Mature Size 24 in. long, 24 in. wide
Native Area Brazil
Plant Type Perennial cactus
Propagation By Stem cuttings
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, heat resistant, pests resistant, deer resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized cactus potting mix
Special Features Festive blooming plant
Sun Exposure Full Sun, Partial shade
Toxicity Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems of Thanksgiving Cactus

Thanksgiving cacti are generally hardy plants, but they can still face a few common problems and pests. 

Overwatering: Avoid excessive watering to prevent root rot and yellowing of leaves

Mealybugs: These pests can infest your Thanksgiving cactus causing damage to leave and stems. Use rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap to combat them. 

Spider mites: Another common pest that can attack the plant. Use rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap to clean the affected areas. 

Insufficient light: Inadequate bright light can result in weak growth and fewer blooms. Move the cactus to a brighter location with bright indirect light.

Flower buds falling off: This can happen because of sudden changes in temperature, drafts, or stress caused by overwatering or underwatering. Maintaining consistent conditions and avoiding excessive watering can help prevent bud drops. 

By being aware of these issues and taking appropriate measures, you can keep your Thanksgiving cactus healthy and thriving! 

Frequently Asked
Questions

  • What is the difference between a Thanksgiving and Christmas cactus? 

    The main difference between a Christmas cactus and a Thanksgiving cactus is the time they typically bloom. The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) usually blooms in December, while the Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) blooms in Mid-November.  The shape of their leaf segments is also slightly different, with the Christmas cactus having rounded edges and the Thanksgiving cactus having more pointed edges. Both cacti are beautiful and make lovely additions to any plant collection!

  • Why is it called a Thanksgiving cactus? 

    The Thanksgiving cactus is called so because it typically blooms around the Thanksgiving holiday through Christmas and into the new year. Its vibrant flowers are a beautiful addition to the festive season!  

  • Why do leaves fall off of a Thanksgiving cactus? 

    Leaves may fall off a Thanksgiving cactus because of various reasons, such as overwatering, underwatering, extreme temperatures, or sudden changes in environmental conditions. Leaf drops can also occur when the soil conditions are poor.  It's important to find the right balance between watering and providing consistent care to help prevent leaf drops. 

  • How long do Thanksgiving cactus flowers last? 

    The flowers of a Thanksgiving cactus typically last for several weeks, usually around 2-4 weeks. Enjoy their vibrant beauty while they're in bloom from November until March!  

  • How to care for a Thanksgiving cactus? 

    1. To care for a Thanksgiving cactus, make sure it gets bright, indirect light for at least 4-6 hours and water it when the top inch of soil is dry.
    2. Avoid overwatering and extreme temperatures outside of the USDA zones 10-12. 
    3.  During the growing season, fertilize it once a year in the spring.
    4. In late fall, give it a cool period with reduced watering to encourage blooming.
    5. With these tips, your Thanksgiving cactus will thrive and bloom beautifully!  

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Thanksgiving Cactus - Schlumbergera truncata

sku: 477

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Regular price$ 16.22
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Please note: Our large plants are many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive 100% healthy and looking great.

Please note: Our large plants are shipped bare root. They are also many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive healthy and looking great.

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Detailed description of this plant is below...

If you live in a cold climate and are expecting temperatures below 40 degrees within the next five days after placing your order, we highly recommend adding a heat pack to your order. If you do not order a heat pack, we do not send one with your order.

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**FREE HEAT PACK WITH ORDERS OVER $50 before taxes and shipping- BY REQUEST ONLY, PLEASE MAKE A NOTE ON YOUR ORDER.

To prevent plants from freezing while in transit, orders placed for areas with extreme severe freezing temperatures will be held for shipment until it is safe to ship.

FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS OVER $89 in the
Continental US.

Plants that are in 3.5" pots and smaller will be shipped in its pot to prevent any damage to the roots.

Any plant that is 6" and larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

Depending on the species and season, you will receive a very similar plant to the one in the picture. It may or may not be blooming at the time of your purchase.

We ship via USPS Priority Mail, If you don't get Free Shipping, then we calculate the shipping cost based on the weight and volume of your purchase.

Care instructions are included in every package you order. Please allow us up to 3 business days to process your order. Depending on your location, we will ship the plants on a certain day to avoid transit time during weekends or holidays. If you wish to receive your order on a specific date, or have special instructions, please add a note on your order. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us at any time.

  • Description
  • Key Plant Features

Introducing the Thanksgiving cactus, also known as Schlumbergera truncata, which is a unique and beautiful cactus that blooms around the Thanksgiving holiday in late fall.It is a member of the cacti family, but unlike other cacti, it lacks spines. Instead, it has a flattened, segmented stem that can grow up to 24 inches long and wide and is also arranged in a cascading manner, creating an attractive hanging or trailing effect.


The Thanksgiving flowers are truly captivating and are a beautiful symbol of gratitude and celebration during this time of year.

There are actually two more types of Thanksgiving cacti. One has red flowers and is called the Red Thanksgiving cactus, while the other has white flowers and is called the White Thanksgiving cactus.

These beautiful cacti blooms are a delightful sight that brings joy and warmth to the holiday season.

The Thanksgiving cactus is also known as a false Christmas cactus plant, zygocactus, holiday cactus, crab cactus, crab plant, and winter cactus.

This plant is one of three common holiday cacti that are frequently confused with one another: the Thanksgiving cactus, the Christmas cactus, and the Easter cactus.For additional information regarding the distinctions between these holiday cacti, please read our article.

Whether used as a centerpiece or simply enjoyed as a potted plant, the Thanksgiving cactus flowers are a lovely reminder of the festive spirit and the beauty of nature.

General Tips for Growing a Thanksgiving Cactus

  1. Place your Thanksgiving cactus in a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can harm the Thanksgiving plant's leaves.
  2. Keep your cactus in a temperature range of 60-70°F. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperature fluctuations.
  3. Water your Thanksgiving cactus when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Make sure to allow any excess water to drain out, as the cactus doesn't like to sit in water.
  4. Thanksgiving cacti prefer higher humidity levels. You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or misting it occasionally.
  5. If your cactus becomes too leggy or unruly, you can prune it back after it finishes blooming. This will help promote a more compact and tidy shape.
  6. Thanksgiving cacti typically bloom in late fall or early winter. To encourage blooming, provide a period of cooler temperatures (around 50-55°F) and reduce watering in the weeks leading up to the desired bloom time.

Thanksgiving Cactus Flowers - Blooming Tips

Thanksgiving cactus flowers are truly stunning and can bring a burst of color to your space. These beautiful blooms typically appear in shades of pink, red, or white. One interesting thing about Thanksgiving cactus flowers is that they can produce multiple flowers from a single areole. This means that you can enjoy a cluster of lovely blossoms on one stem, creating a captivating display.

The Thanksgiving cactus most commonly blooms in the late fall, while the Christmas cactus blooms in early to late winter, and the Easter cactus blooms in the early spring.

If you don't have a suitable bright location, don't worry! The Thanksgiving cactus can tolerate lower light conditions but may not flower as abundantly. The Thanksgiving cactus blooms in response to changes in light and temperature. As the days get shorter and the temperatures cool down, it signals the plant to produce buds and, eventually, flowers. So, the combination of shorter days and cooler temperatures triggers the Thanksgiving cactus to bloom.

In fact, a period of darkness for about 12-14 hours a day for 6-8 weeks in the fall can encourage blooming. Once flower buds form, move the Schlumbergera truncata to a bright, draft-free window. 

Thanksgiving Cactus Care

The Thanksgiving cactus native to Brazil's tropical and subtropical regions, is an epiphyte that grows naturally from trees and branches in jungle environments. It's easy to keep happy indoors and doesn't require too much light or attention. Care differs significantly from other desert cacti, and there are some important things to consider when caring for this popular holiday cactus.

When and How to Water Your Thanksgiving Cactus 

When it comes to watering the Thanksgiving holiday cactus, it's important to find the right balance.It needs a bit more watering as compared to other regular cacti. Overwatering tropical plants can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the Thanksgiving plants to become dehydrated.

A good rule of thumb is to water the Thanksgiving cactus when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Be sure to use well-drained soil to prevent water from sitting at the roots. When watering, give your Thanksgiving Christmas cacti a thorough soak, allowing the excess water to drain out of the pot.

During the growing season, which is typically early spring to fall, you can water the Thanksgiving cactus more frequently. However, during the dormant period in late fall, it's best to reduce watering to allow your Thanksgiving cactus to rest.

Remember, it's always better to underwater than overwater. So, keep an eye on the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Your Thanksgiving cactus will thrive with just the right amount of hydration!

Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Thanksgiving Cactus

The Thanksgiving cactus is a popular houseplant because it can handle bright, indirect light. When growing indoors, place it near an east-facing window where it can receive bright morning or evening sun, but be cautious of direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, as it can scorch the leaves.

If you don't have a suitable window with bright, indirect light, you can also grow the Thanksgiving cactus Schlumbergera truncata under fluorescent lights. This can be a great option if you live in a location with limited natural light or sun indoors or during the winter months when daylight hours are shorter.

The Thanksgiving cactus is a fantastic choice for offices because it can tolerate fluorescent light, which is often found in office settings. Its beautiful blooms can bring a pop of color and cheer to the workspace, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. Plus, it's relatively low-maintenance, making it perfect for busy office environments.

For outdoor cultivation, it can grow best in full sun to partial shade. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn yellow or pale, while insufficient light can result in weak growth and fewer Thanksgiving cactus blooms. So, aim for a spot with bright, indirect light, and your Thanksgiving cactus will thrive and reward you with its beautiful blooms!

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

When it comes to soil, the Thanksgiving cactus favors very airy, sandy potting soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and, most likely, root rot. The Thanksgiving cactus thrives on tree branches in its native habitat, feeding on the organic debris that decomposes off the bark. Thanksgiving cacti should, therefore, be cultivated as houseplants in a potting mix that is acidic in pH, humus-rich, and airy. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized cactus potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your holiday cactus thrive.

As for fertilizing, the Thanksgiving cactus benefits from occasional feeding once a year during the growing season in the spring. You can use a balanced, NPK water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for Schlumbergera truncata cacti to bloom.

During the dormant period in early fall and winter, it's best to reduce or stop fertilizing altogether. This allows your holiday cactus to rest and prepare for the upcoming blooming season. With the right soil and proper fertilization, your Thanksgiving cactus will stay healthy and vibrant!

Hardiness Zone & More

The Thanksgiving cactus is an epiphytic plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors. When grown indoors, it prefers a moderate temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you live in a USDA zone 10 to 11, you can grow these Thanksgiving beauties outdoors. Which includes regions with mild winters and warm climates. It can tolerate freezing temperatures as low as 50°F, but it's best to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.

In terms of humidity, the Thanksgiving cactus prefers moderate humidity levels. It can tolerate average indoor humidity, but it's important to avoid excessively dry conditions. You can increase humidity around your Schlumbergera truncata by placing a tray filled with water near it or by using a humidifier.

So, no matter where you live, as long as you provide the right temperature, humidity, and care, your Thanksgiving cactus will be happy and healthy!

Propagating Thanksgiving Cactus

Thanksgiving cactus Schlumbergera truncata, you can take stem cuttings. Simply snip off healthy stem segments of your holiday plant, making sure it has a few segments and at least one areole. Let the cutting dry for a few days until the cut end forms a callus. Then, place the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it lightly moist. With proper care and patience, the cutting will develop roots and grow into a new Thanksgiving cactus. It's a fun and rewarding way to expand your cactus collection!

Key Takeaways

  1. The Thanksgiving cactus plants are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, making them perfect for busy people or those new to plant parenthood.
  2. It produces stunning flowers in shades of pink, red, white, and bi-colored, which bloom around the holiday season, adding a pop of color and a festive touch to your space.
  3. Like other plants, it helps purify the air by removing toxins and pollutants, promoting a healthier indoor environment.
  4. With proper care, it can live for many years, and its flowers can last for several weeks, providing a long-lasting display of beauty.
  5. Thanksgiving cactus plants are simple to propagate through stem cuttings, allowing you to share plants with friends and family or expand your own collection.
  6. Consider adding a Thanksgiving cactus plant to your space, available for purchase at your local nursery or online plant retailer, to bring beauty, freshness, and joy to your home!
Bloom Season Late fall, early winter
Botanical Name Schlumbergera truncata
Common Name Thanksgiving cactus, crab cactus, winter cactus, holiday cactus
Dormancy Winter
Family Cactaceae
Flower Color Pink
Genus Schlumbergera
Growth Habit Trailing, hanging
Growth Rate Moderate
Hardiness Zone 10, 11, 12
Mature Size 24 in. long, 24 in. wide
Native Area Brazil
Plant Type Perennial cactus
Propagation By Stem cuttings
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, heat resistant, pests resistant, deer resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized cactus potting mix
Special Features Festive blooming plant
Sun Exposure Full Sun, Partial shade
Toxicity Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems of Thanksgiving Cactus

Thanksgiving cacti are generally hardy plants, but they can still face a few common problems and pests. 

Overwatering: Avoid excessive watering to prevent root rot and yellowing of leaves

Mealybugs: These pests can infest your Thanksgiving cactus causing damage to leave and stems. Use rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap to combat them. 

Spider mites: Another common pest that can attack the plant. Use rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap to clean the affected areas. 

Insufficient light: Inadequate bright light can result in weak growth and fewer blooms. Move the cactus to a brighter location with bright indirect light.

Flower buds falling off: This can happen because of sudden changes in temperature, drafts, or stress caused by overwatering or underwatering. Maintaining consistent conditions and avoiding excessive watering can help prevent bud drops. 

By being aware of these issues and taking appropriate measures, you can keep your Thanksgiving cactus healthy and thriving! 

Frequently Asked
Questions

  • What is the difference between a Thanksgiving and Christmas cactus? 

    The main difference between a Christmas cactus and a Thanksgiving cactus is the time they typically bloom. The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) usually blooms in December, while the Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) blooms in Mid-November.  The shape of their leaf segments is also slightly different, with the Christmas cactus having rounded edges and the Thanksgiving cactus having more pointed edges. Both cacti are beautiful and make lovely additions to any plant collection!

  • Why is it called a Thanksgiving cactus? 

    The Thanksgiving cactus is called so because it typically blooms around the Thanksgiving holiday through Christmas and into the new year. Its vibrant flowers are a beautiful addition to the festive season!  

  • Why do leaves fall off of a Thanksgiving cactus? 

    Leaves may fall off a Thanksgiving cactus because of various reasons, such as overwatering, underwatering, extreme temperatures, or sudden changes in environmental conditions. Leaf drops can also occur when the soil conditions are poor.  It's important to find the right balance between watering and providing consistent care to help prevent leaf drops. 

  • How long do Thanksgiving cactus flowers last? 

    The flowers of a Thanksgiving cactus typically last for several weeks, usually around 2-4 weeks. Enjoy their vibrant beauty while they're in bloom from November until March!  

  • How to care for a Thanksgiving cactus? 

    1. To care for a Thanksgiving cactus, make sure it gets bright, indirect light for at least 4-6 hours and water it when the top inch of soil is dry.
    2. Avoid overwatering and extreme temperatures outside of the USDA zones 10-12. 
    3.  During the growing season, fertilize it once a year in the spring.
    4. In late fall, give it a cool period with reduced watering to encourage blooming.
    5. With these tips, your Thanksgiving cactus will thrive and bloom beautifully!  

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