schlumbergera truncata / thanksgiving cactus - starter plant

The Thanksgiving Cactus, scientifically known as Schlumbergera truncata, is a charming and festive houseplant admired for its vibrant, cascading flowers and its ability to bloom around the Thanksgiving season. Native to Brazil, this tropical epiphyte is a member of the cactus family and is popular for its colorful display and ease of care.

Appearance:
Thanksgiving Cacti feature flattened, segmented stems that are usually leaf-like and not spiny, making them different from typical cacti. The stems have a unique cascading habit, creating a pendulous and bushy appearance. The plant's real charm lies in its profusion of brightly colored, tubular flowers, which can come in various shades, including pink, red, orange, yellow, and white. These striking flowers emerge from the tips of the segments, creating a vibrant and festive display. The flowers have a unique symmetrical shape, resembling a trumpet, and can last for several weeks, enhancing the plant's ornamental appeal.

Required Care:

Light: Thanksgiving Cacti thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hotter part of the day, as it can scorch the leaves. Place the plant near a window with filtered sunlight or in a spot with bright, indirect light.

Temperature: Maintain a consistent room temperature between 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. Avoid exposing the plant to drafts, sudden temperature changes, or cold air.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water the Thanksgiving Cactus thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain out of the pot, and avoid water standing in the saucer to prevent root rot.

Humidity: Thanksgiving Cacti appreciate moderate to high humidity levels. If your indoor air is dry, consider placing a humidifier near the plant or placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water to increase humidity around the plant.

Soil: Plant the Thanksgiving Cactus in well-draining, rich potting soil with added organic matter. A mix designed for cacti and succulents works well. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation at the roots.

Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 3-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization in fall and winter when the plant is resting.

Pruning: Remove any dead or damaged segments with clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to maintain the plant's shape and health. Pruning can also encourage branching and more abundant blooms.

With its beautiful and long-lasting blooms, the Thanksgiving Cactus adds a touch of festive elegance to homes during the holiday season. Its relatively undemanding care requirements make it a popular choice among indoor gardeners, providing a burst of color and joy when other plants might be entering their winter dormancy.

Instructions for Repotting Starter Plugs of Plants:

Materials Needed:

Starter plugs or seedlings
New pots with drainage holes
High-quality potting mix
Watering can or spray bottle
Small trowel or spoon
Optional: gloves, plant labels, and marker
Steps:

1. Prepare the New Pots: Choose pots that are slightly larger than the starter plugs. Ensure they have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. Clean the pots thoroughly, especially if they have been used before, to remove any pathogens.

2. Prepare the Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix appropriate for the type of plants you are repotting. Moisten the mix slightly to make it easier to work with but avoid it being overly wet.

3. Remove Plants from Starter Plugs: Carefully remove the plants from the starter plugs. Gently squeeze the bottom of the plug or use a pencil to push the plant out if it’s stuck. Be gentle to avoid damaging the roots.

4. Add Potting Mix to New Pots: Fill the new pots one-third to one-half full with the prepared potting mix. Adjust the level based on the size of the starter plug and the plant's root system.

5. Place Plants in New Pots: Create a small hole in the center of the potting mix in the new pot. Place the plant’s roots into the hole, ensuring the top of the starter plug is level with the pot's rim.

6. Fill the Pots with Potting Mix: Gently fill the space around the roots with potting mix, pressing it down lightly to remove air pockets. Leave about an inch of space between the top of the potting mix and the rim of the pot.

7. Water the Plants: After repotting, water the plants thoroughly. Allow excess water to drain out from the bottom of the pot. This helps settle the soil and ensures the roots are in good contact with the new potting mix.

8. Provide Proper Care: Place the newly repotted plants in an appropriate environment. This includes providing the right amount of light, water, and humidity according to the specific plant's needs.

9. Label the Plants (Optional): If you're repotting different types of plants, consider labeling them with plant tags and a marker. This helps you keep track of the plants' names and care requirements. See example for this plant in images. This is available as a digital file for purchase under my shop's listings.

10. Monitor and Adjust: Keep a close eye on the repotted plants over the next few weeks. Watch for signs of stress or inadequate moisture. Adjust your care routine as needed to help the plants acclimate to their new pots and continue to thrive.