August is the last month to feed your Christmas cactus before it settles into its fall rest, and if you haven’t fed yours yet, now’s the time. Here are a few natural options, no harsh synthetic fertilizers needed.
Fish Emulsion
Mix according to the bottle, usually about a tablespoon per gallon of water, and water it in like normal. This feeds slow and won’t push weak growth right before dormancy.
Compost Tea
Steep a scoop of finished compost in a gallon of water for 24 to 48 hours, strain, and water the plant with it. Gentle and full of the microbes the roots want.
Seaweed or Kelp Extract
Diluted kelp feeds the plant without overloading it with nitrogen, which is exactly what you want going into rest.
Directions for Any of These
Water the plant with your chosen feed once this month. Make sure the soil is already a little damp first so you’re not feeding a bone dry root system. I place mine is a darker area of our home and just let it be. Starting in September, it’ll want cooler nights and less water to trigger blooming for the holidays.
One feeding now, then rest. That’s it.
