Why Your Easter Cactus Is Losing Buds And What To Do About It

With star-shaped flowers that bloom just in time for Easter, Easter cacti (Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri') are beautiful, low-maintenance houseplants. However, if you notice that your Easter cactus is losing its buds before they even bloom, then you're probably wondering what went wrong. There are a few different factors that might be causing this bud loss, including an unsuitable environment and improper watering. Understanding these can help you properly care for an Easter cactus and save it before the next blooming season.

While they are one of the best succulents to grow indoors, Easter cacti are very sensitive to their environment. If your plant is experiencing a sudden temperature change, or if you've placed it somewhere that is drafty, it can become stressed and drop its buds prematurely. Easter cacti prefer moderate temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit and don't do well in conditions that are too hot or too cold. If your cactus is near a window, air conditioning vent, or space heater, the constant temperature fluctuation and dry air can cause it to lose its buds.

To address environmental stress, reassess your cactus's location. Make sure that it's not in a place where it is subject to extreme temperature changes or drafts. You should place it in bright, indirect light. Since Easter cacti like humidity, you can use a humidifier or put your cactus on a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water to create a more suitable microenvironment.

Improper watering could also be the culprit behind the bud drop. If you water your Easter cactus too much, the excess moisture can make the buds wilt or turn yellow. Soil should be kept moderately moist throughout the growing season, but Easter cacti do not like to sit in waterlogged soil.

A genius tip for watering your plants is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. If you've been watering more frequently than that, cut back, and give the potting medium time to dry out. And if you've been letting the medium dry out too much, try giving it a nice soak (while also making sure the water can drain out freely), and adjust your schedule moving forward.

Lastly, consider whether the potting mix is draining properly. Even if you're not overwatering the cactus, the potting medium may not drain well enough and cause excessive moisture buildup. Easter cacti need well-draining, slightly acidic soil to thrive. If your plant is potted in a heavy, water-retaining medium, it may be worth repotting it in a mix designed for succulents or cacti. This will help ensure that the roots can breathe, and that water isn't accumulating around them, leading to root rot and killing the buds.