Here's Why Your Thanksgiving Cactus Won't Flower (And What You Can Do About It)

The Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is a popular is a popular houseplant cherished for its vibrant blooms that typically appear around the holiday season. These flowers can liven up your home during the cold and dreary winter months, making it a favorite among plant lovers. However, it can be quite frustrating when your cactus refuses to flower despite your best efforts. Understanding the reasons behind this problem can help you take the necessary steps to encourage blooming and enjoy those beautiful flowers. There are several common reasons why a Thanksgiving cactus might not flower, including an inadequate dark period, underwatering or overwatering, and temperature fluctuations. Addressing these issues can create an environment that supports and encourages your Thanksgiving cactus to bloom. 

One of the most common reasons your Thanksgiving cactus might not be flowering could be due to not getting enough dark time at night. Seems potentially counterintuitive, right? Well, these plants require an extended period of time in the dark to trigger blooming around the holidays. Overhead lamps and lights can easily disrupt this darkness cycle they need, as well. Ideally, they need 12 to 16 hours each night for 6 to 8 weeks in order to bloom. So, if you want to encourage your Thanksgiving cactus to bloom, it's best to put it or move it somewhere, like a dark closet or room, during this period of time so it can get as much dark time as possible. You might also bee able to cover it up to help reduce light exposure, too. 

Another potential reason your Thanksgiving cactus isn't flowering could be due to overwatering or underwatering. These cacti are prone to root rot, and overwatering your plant can lead to soggy soil, where they will not do well. Overwatering and underwatering can greatly stress the plant and prevent it from blooming. Make sure you let the top third of the soil to dry out between waterings. When you do water, use room temperature water and make sure your pot has adequate drainage so the water doesn't pool at the bottom. This can help to make sure the roots receive enough water and moisture without becoming waterlogged. During the blooming season, you'll want to be extra careful to make sure your plant isn't sitting in standing water, but also isn't bone dry for a thriving Thanksgiving cactus.

Temperature fluctuations can also impact the blooming cycle of your Thanksgiving cactus. These plants prefer stable temperature, especially during the budding phase. The ideal temperatures for your Thanksgiving cactus to bloom is between 50 and 55 degree Fahrenheit during the night and slightly warmer during the day. Your cactus will also benefit from increased humidity during this time as well to mimic its natural environment. If you live in a cold climate that stays considerably dry indoors during the holiday months, consider adding a small humidifier nearby to increase the moisture in the air. To promote blooming, avoid putting your cactus near drafty windows, doors, or heating vents when it might be exposed to sudden temperature and humidity changes.