The Christmas cactus, also known as the holiday cactus or crab cactus, is a popular houseplant renowned for its colorful holiday blooms. While mature plants can be purchased, growing from cuttings is an affordable way to propagate new Christmas cactus plants. Here’s what to know about finding these festive cuttings for sale.
Sourcing Cuttings
Christmas cactus cuttings can be sourced in several ways
- From existing plants – Cut off healthy stem segments in spring or summer
- From friends/family – Obtain cuttings from others’ mature Christmas cacti
- Online stores – Order cuttings from online nurseries and Etsy sellers
- Local nurseries – Some garden centers sell cuttings seasonally
Taking cuttings from a plant you already own or getting them from a friend is usually the most budget-friendly route. However, purchasing online or from a store ensures specific varieties.
Buying Christmas Cactus Cuttings Online
Online outlets like Etsy and independent nursery sites offer various Christmas cactus cutting options shipped right to your door
Some things to look for when buying online
- Reputable seller – Check shop reviews and policies
- Established cuttings – Mature, calloused cuttings root better than fresh
- Packaging – Should keep cuttings intact and unbruised in transit
- Variety details – Color, size, etc. should be clearly described
Prices generally range from $5-$15 per cutting depending on size, variety, and source. Etsy offers smaller individual cuttings while nursery sites may sell multi-cutting bundles.
When your order arrives, inspect cuttings and re-cut any damaged ends before rooting.
Finding Christmas Cactus Cuttings Locally
Another option is purchasing cuttings at a local greenhouse or nursery. Availability depends on the season.
- Spring – New growth makes early spring ideal for cuttings
- Summer – Actively growing plants can provide fresh cuttings
- Fall/Winter – Mature plants discarded after holiday blooms may offer cuttings
Call ahead to confirm a shop has Christmas cactus cutting stock and estimated pricing. Cuttings purchased in person allow you to hand select specific pieces.
Big box garden centers are less likely to carry cuttings than independent plant nurseries focused on selection. Visit specialty cactus/succulent growers if possible.
What to Look for In Cuttings
Whether sourcing online or in person, ideal Christmas cactus cuttings exhibit:
- 3-6 segments – Longer segments root better
- No flowers/buds – Energy should go to roots, not blooms
- Firm, plump stems – Avoid thin or limp cuttings
- Clean, undamaged ends – Prevents rotting
- Callused ends – Sign of healing indicates readiness to root
- Pest/disease free – Inspect for bugs, eggs, spots, etc.
Slender cuttings and those showing damage or infestation should be avoided as they have lower viability.
How to Root Christmas Cactus Cuttings
Once obtained, Christmas cactus cuttings root readily in soil or water.
To root cuttings:
- Prepare a planting container with well-draining potting mix or a jar of clean water
- Optional: Dip cut ends in rooting hormone to speed development
- Plant cut ends 1-2 inches deep in soil or submerge 2-3 inches in water
- Maintain consistent warmth and humidity
- new roots and growth will emerge in approximately 4-8 weeks
Rooted cuttings can be repotted into mature plants to enjoy their iconic holiday blooms.
Enjoy Festive Blooms for Pennies
Searching for Christmas cactus cuttings for sale lets you expand or start your collection economically. A single mature plant can provide many cuttings to root and grow on.
Rather than buying full-priced plants each year that only bloom seasonally, cuttings offer affordable long-term propagation. Share cuttings with fellow plant lovers too!
Soon you’ll have abundant Christmas cacti to brighten up every holiday season with beautiful blooms and festive holiday spirit.
How To Propagate Christmas Cactus Cuttings! SIMPLE AND EASY!
FAQ
Can you take cuttings from a Christmas cactus?
What is the fastest way to root a Christmas cactus?
What time of year do you take cactus cuttings?
How do you cut a Christmas cactus?
Here’s the step by step method: Pinch a section off of your Christmas cactus at a joint (between two of the leaf segments) instead of cutting. Twisting gently until it breaks free is the easiest method and results in the cleanest cut, and be sure not to break a segment off in the middle.
Can Christmas cactus be propagated from cuttings?
Will, gardening expert and blogger behind “ The Empress of Dirt,” explains that propagating Christmas cactuses from cuttings is the simplest and easiest method for multiplying your plant.
How do you grow a Christmas cactus?
If you want a nice bushy Christmas cactus, it all starts right here. Sure, you can poke a cutting in the middle of your pot, and it will grow, and eventually, new branches will begin to form. However, planting several cuttings at once, close together, ensures that the cactus will fill out the pot faster.
Are Christmas cactus a family plant?
Many houseplant lovers enjoy propagating and sharing their plants. But Christmas cactus, in particular, are often part of a family legacy, with cuttings handed down from a family member’s plant for generations. These cuttings are often much more meaningful than your average propagated plant.