Ask Extension Database, NDSU Extension Service Ask Extension for answers to commonly asked questions. You will get the best results with the Christmas cactus if you grow the plant with 3 fairly distinct growth periods. These might be designated as the vegetative growth period , the rest period and the flowering period . You need to water carefully at all times as water is an important factor in determining the growth periods.
Temperature is also important.
Plants will not flower at temperatures of 70 degrees or above. The vegetative period begins in January and again in the summer months. Water cacti generously . People usually set the plant outdoors in partial shade after the last frost in spring. During this time, apply a weak liquid fertilizer solution at 3 or 4 week intervals.