Orchid cactus care: watering, light and repotting
Also called queen of the night, leaf cactus · Epiphyllum · Cactaceae family
14 d in winter
How often to water the orchid cactus?
Allow about 7 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 14 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
A cool winter rest (50–59 °F, 10–15 °C) with little water prepares its large spring flowers.
What light does it need?
The orchid cactus likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 3 years, ideally in June, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 3 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: Stems 2–3 ft (60 cm–1 m).
Common problems
Won't flower
Cause: No cool rest in winter. What to do: Put it in a cool room from November to February.
Soft stems
Cause: Too much water. What to do: Let the surface of the soil dry out.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the orchid cactus?
About every 7 days in spring and summer, and every 2 weeks in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the orchid cactus?
The orchid cactus likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the orchid cactus?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the orchid cactus?
Every 3 years, ideally in June, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the orchid cactus safe?
No toxicity is known, but no veterinary source has confirmed it: to be safe, keep the plant out of reach of pets and young children.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the orchid cactus needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.