Overwintering guide
How to overwinter christmas tree cactus
Winter watering
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
The mistake that kills christmas tree cactus in winter
Cutting christmas tree cactus hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.
More christmas tree cactus care
Overwintering christmas tree cactus — FAQ
Does christmas tree cactus need to come indoors for winter?
Christmas Tree Cactus is hardy to roughly USDA zone 6 — winter lows around -23°C. That means it can stay outside all winter in most temperate gardens. Christmas Tree Cactus is properly hardy and overwinters outside without fuss. Tidy away anything dead or diseased, apply a mulch over the crown to steady soil temperatures, and otherwise leave it alone — many hardy plants actually need a cold period to flower and grow well the following year. Save hard pruning for the right season rather than doing it in autumn.
When should I move christmas tree cactus for winter?
Tidy and mulch in late autumn; leave the plant undisturbed until spring.
How often should I water christmas tree cactus in winter?
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
What kills christmas tree cactus over winter?
Cutting christmas tree cactus hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.