The Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is a beloved holiday plant, known for its bright, colorful blooms that appear just in time for Thanksgiving.
Often confused with the Christmas cactus, the Thanksgiving cactus has jagged, claw-like leaf edges, distinguishing it from its relatives.
November is the critical month for caring for these plants to ensure they develop buds and bloom beautifully for the holiday season.
This detailed care guide will walk you through what your Thanksgiving cactus needs in November and the common mistakes to avoid if it’s not blooming.
Caring for Thanksgiving Cactus in November: Get Ready for Blooms!
1. Light Requirements
In November, your Thanksgiving cactus needs bright, indirect light to prepare for blooming. Exposure to the right light conditions helps trigger bud formation.
- During the day: Place the cactus near an east- or north-facing window where it can receive indirect sunlight.
- At night: Keep it away from artificial lights to maintain natural darkness for at least 12-14 hours each night. This mimics shorter daylight hours and helps initiate budding.
2. Temperature Control
Temperature is key to promoting blooming in Thanksgiving cacti. These plants thrive when they experience cooler temperatures at night.
- Daytime: 65-70°F (18-21°C)
- Nighttime: 50-55°F (10-13°C)
- Avoid placing the cactus near heaters, fireplaces, or cold drafts. A slightly cooler room at night encourages flower bud development.
3. Watering Schedule
Proper watering is essential for healthy buds and flowers. In November, the cactus enters its pre-bloom phase, meaning it needs consistent moisture.
- Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Avoid overwatering, as the plant is prone to root rot.
- Use room-temperature water, and ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.
4. Humidity
Thanksgiving cacti prefer moderate humidity levels. If your indoor air is dry, particularly in heated homes, your plant may suffer.
- Use a humidifier or place the cactus on a tray with water and pebbles to maintain humidity.
- Avoid misting, as water sitting on the leaves can lead to fungal issues.
5. Fertilizing
In early November, switch to a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to support budding and blooming. Stop fertilizing once the plant begins to bloom.
- How to Fertilize: Use a diluted bloom-boosting fertilizer every two weeks.
Encouraging Buds and Blooms for Thanksgiving
To ensure your Thanksgiving cactus blooms on time, follow these additional tips:
- Limit Night Light Exposure: Thanksgiving cacti need uninterrupted darkness for 12-14 hours each night to form buds. Too much exposure to artificial light (like lamps or TVs) can interfere with blooming.
- Don’t Move the Plant: Once buds form, avoid moving the plant to a different location, as changes in light or temperature may cause bud drop.
- Maintain Cooler Temperatures at Night: A temperature drop at night signals the plant that it’s time to bloom, mimicking its natural environment.
Reasons Your Thanksgiving Cactus Isn’t Blooming
If your cactus isn’t producing buds or flowers, several factors could be at play. Here are the most common reasons and how to fix them.
1. Too Much Light at Night
Excess exposure to light, especially at night, can confuse the plant and prevent it from entering its blooming cycle.
- Solution: Ensure the plant gets 12-14 hours of darkness each night in a low-light room or cover it with a cloth.
2. Inconsistent Watering
Overwatering or underwatering can stress the plant, leading to fewer or no blooms.
- Solution: Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
3. High Temperatures at Night
Thanksgiving cacti need cool nights to initiate blooming. Warm temperatures may prevent buds from forming.
- Solution: Place the plant in a cooler room during the night, ideally around 50-55°F (10-13°C).
4. Lack of Dormancy
Thanksgiving cacti need a rest period to bloom successfully. If the plant was overwatered or fertilized excessively during summer, it may not have entered dormancy.
- Solution: Reduce watering and stop fertilizing in late summer to give the plant time to rest.
5. Bud Drop Due to Stress
If the plant experiences sudden changes in temperature, humidity, or light, it may drop its buds before blooming.
- Solution: Once buds form, avoid moving the plant and maintain a consistent environment.
6. Too Little Humidity
Low humidity can prevent buds from forming or cause them to dry out prematurely.
- Solution: Place the plant near a humidifier or set it on a tray with pebbles and water.
What to Expect: Blooming Timeline
- Early November: Buds should start to develop if the plant receives proper care.
- Mid to Late November: Buds begin to swell, and flowers may start opening just in time for Thanksgiving.
- Bloom Duration: Flowers typically last 1-2 weeks, depending on temperature and humidity.
With the right care, your Thanksgiving cactus will reward you with vibrant blooms just in time for the holidays.