Can You Plant Christmas and Thanksgiving Cactus in the Same Pot?

Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti are popular houseplants that have a lot in common. Both are native to Brazil and belong to the Schlumbergera genus. They have leaf-like stems that grow in a flat pattern and produce stunning blooms in shades of red, pink, orange, and white. However, there are a few key differences between the two plants that you need to be aware of if you’re considering planting them in the same pot.

The Differences Between Christmas and Thanksgiving Cactus

The most noticeable difference between Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti is the time of year when they bloom. Christmas cactus typically blooms in late November or early December, while Thanksgiving cactus blooms a few weeks earlier, usually in late October or early November. Some people find it difficult to tell the two plants apart based on their blooms alone, but there are a few other differences to look for:

The shape of the stem segments: Christmas cactus has stem segments with rounded edges, while Thanksgiving cactus has stem segments with sharper points.

The direction of the stem segments: Christmas cactus stem segments droop downward, while Thanksgiving cactus stem segments point upwards.

The color of the anthers (the pollen-bearing part of the flower): Christmas cactus has yellow anthers, while Thanksgiving cactus has pink anthers.

Planting Christmas and Thanksgiving Cactus Together

Now that you know the differences between the two plants, you might be wondering if it’s possible to plant them together in the same pot. The answer is yes, you can! In fact, some people choose to plant them together to create a festive display of blooms that lasts from late October through December.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when planting Christmas and Thanksgiving cactus together:

Choose a pot that is slightly larger than your existing plant(s) to allow room for the roots to grow.

Use well-draining soil that is specifically designed for cacti and succulents.

Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.

Place the plants in a bright, indirect light location. Too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves and blooms.

Water the plants only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot.

Caring for Christmas and Thanksgiving Cactus

Whether you choose to plant your Christmas and Thanksgiving cactus together or keep them in separate pots, you’ll need to provide them with proper care to keep them healthy and blooming year after year. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Temperature: Keep your plants in a location with a temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid drastic temperature changes, such as placing the plants near a drafty window or air conditioner.

Humidity: Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti prefer a humid environment, so consider placing a tray of water near your plants to increase the moisture in the air.

Fertilizer: Feed your plants with a cactus or succulent fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, which is typically from spring through summer. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plants are dormant.

Pruning: If your plants become leggy or overgrown, you can prune them back after they have finished blooming. This will encourage new growth and more blooms in the future.

Conclusion

Planting Christmas and Thanksgiving cactus together in the same pot is a great way to create a festive display of blooms that lasts for several weeks during the holiday season. Just be sure to choose a pot with proper drainage, use well-draining soil, and provide the plants with proper care and maintenance. With a little TLC, your Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti will provide you with stunning blooms year after year.