Sherry,
I have some questions about a Christmas cactus. Like what do I have to do to transplant it. It's about ten years old. It used to belong to my father. Then my mother took it over in 91. Now I guess it's my turn. She's been in the hospital since just before Christmas. I just want to take good care of it and have it bloom for the holidays again.
Hello, Nick. I am sorry to hear that your mother is not doing well. I didn't realize that she was in the hospital this entire time.
Christmas Cactus (Zygocactus truncatus) is easy to care for. The most important thing to remember is that for abundant blooms the plant needs a rest period (when it's kept cooler--50 to 55 degrees-- and watered less), a bit of time outdoors in summer (in a shady spot), and increased water and warmer temperatures (no less than 55 degrees) when flowering.
I would not repot it right now (October) as this is the time it should be forming flower buds. Wait until after flowering to repot (late winter or early spring).
Jan - flowering
Feb, Mar - resting (55 degrees, infrequent watering)
Apr, May - water thoroughly when potting mix begins to dry out
Jun, Jul, Aug - place outdoors in a shady spot. (Remember that slugs will seek it out, so protect your plant!) (They have been munching on my rooted cuttings!)
Sep, Oct - plant prepares to flower. Keep on the dry side and cool until flower buds form. Then increase water and temperature.
Nov, Dec - flowering. Water normally. Temp no lower than 55.