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Zygocactus

Zygocactus is the common name for Schlumbergera spp. and Rhipsalidopis spp. These types of cactus are forest dwellers and enjoy a shady position with morning sun. The autumn flower buds are initiated by the restricted light of shorter days. It is best to put the Zygocactus outside at this time away from artificial lighting which creates light all day and into the evening.

The soil needs to be constantly moist throughout the year, except just after the flowering period when watering needs to be reduced until Spring. Never let the soil completely dry out and if you can, use rainwater. Fertilise regularly with a liquid fertilizer such as fish emulsion every couple of weeks throughout the year, except during the period just after flowering. An annual top dress of cow manure is also enjoyed.

Re-pot after flowering each year. If the roots appear to be crowded, try a pot the next size up, however, as Zygocactus have a small root system you can use the same pot again shaking off the previous years mixture. Use a potting mixture with the addition of one part peat and one part course sand. This will prevent the plant from becoming water logged, remember they love the constant moisture. Hanging baskets (lined with sphagnum moss to retain the potting mixture) are great as they can be moved into vision at flowering time, then hung under trees afterwards. At all times, protect from hot afternoon sun.

As an indoor plant, the Zygocactus should be placed in medium light near a partly shaded window.  Be sure to move them into an area that does not have as much night time artificial light when  the Autumn buds appear.  At this time, shorter light hours are needed to produce the bloom.

You can also propagate segments of your Zygocactus quite easily. During Spring and summer, carefully remove segments of the plant and allow to dry out for a couple of hours. Place segments with at least three joints into your soil mix, pushing the bottom segment into the soil. Place a few into one pot and maintain as you would a mature plant.  Try propagating different coloured varieties into the same pots for a brilliant splash of colour.