Winter can be tough on cacti. I learned this the hard way when my lovely prickly pear turned mushy after a cold snap in my Chicago home. If you’re like me and love your spiky friends, you want to keep them thriving through the chilly months. In the U.S., where winters range from mild to…
I’ll never forget the first time I brought home a succulent. It was a tiny, vibrant echeveria, and I was smitten. But when summer rolled around, I nearly killed it with too much love—and too much water. Succulents are desert natives, built to store water in their plump leaves and stems. But summer in the…
I remember the first time I tried repotting my Thanksgiving cactus. I was nervous, worried I’d kill my beloved plant with its vibrant, festive blooms. But after a few successful repots, I’ve learned it’s easier than it seems—and it’s a game-changer for keeping your cactus healthy. If your Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is looking cramped…
I’ve been there—staring at my Thanksgiving cactus, expecting a burst of vibrant blooms, only to see nothing but green. It’s frustrating, especially when you’ve been nurturing it like a proud plant parent. If your Thanksgiving cactus isn’t blooming, don’t worry. I’m sharing the fixes that worked for me. First, let’s make sure we’re on the…
The Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is my favorite houseplant. Its vibrant blooms in shades of pink, red, and white pop just in time for the holiday season. I’ve grown these beauties in my home for years, and I’m excited to share how to care for them indoors. Before we get to care, let’s clear up…
The Christmas cactus, with its vibrant blooms, is a holiday favorite in many homes. I’ve had mine for years, and nothing beats seeing those bright flowers light up my living room in December. But, like any houseplant, Christmas cacti can attract pests that threaten their beauty. If you’re noticing wilting leaves, sticky residue, or tiny…
Last year, my collection of 10 potted succulents was looking sad—dull colors, no growth, you name it. I started using a diluted 2-7-7 liquid fertilizer every six weeks from April to August. By fall, my plants were thriving! My zebra plant grew new offsets, and my burro’s tail looked fuller than ever. It felt like…
The Christmas cactus is my favorite holiday plant. Its vibrant blooms (pink, red, white, or orange) light up any room during the festive season. Unlike typical cacti, this beauty thrives in cooler, shadier spots, making it perfect for homes in regions with winter. If you’re thinking about adding a Christmas cactus to your holiday decor,…
If you’re like me, you’ve probably fallen in love with succulents. Their plump leaves, vibrant colors, and low-maintenance make them perfect for any home. But here’s something I learned the hard way: succulents aren’t always active year-round. Many go through a phase called succulent dormancy. Understanding it can save your plants from a winter disaster….
I’ve always been fascinated by agaves. Their bold, spiky leaves and desert-chic vibe make them a standout in any home or garden. But when winter rolls around, I used to worry about whether my agaves could handle the chill. These tough succulents are surprisingly resilient, but they need the right care to thrive through winter….