What should you do if your Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera) has been frostbitten? Learn the correct way to handle it
1. Is it prone to frost damage?
It is extremely prone to freezing. This is because it is very sensitive to temperature, especially in winter. If the temperature falls below five degrees Celsius, it is very likely to suffer frost damage. In some areas far to the south, if the temperature does not drop low, you do not need to pay too much attention. However, in areas slightly farther north, winter temperatures easily fall below zero degrees, so you absolutely must pay attention. Therefore, from late autumn through the entire winter, growers in these areas need to be careful. If you notice signs of frost damage, you must take action promptly, as it may still recover. If you wait until the damage is very severe, remedial measures will be almost useless.
2. Consequences of frost damage
First, its leaves may droop and look listless. In severe cases, they may even fall off directly. In addition, its flowering period runs from September to April of the following year, and winter falls right within this range. So it is easy to understand that after frost damage, the buds easily drop off, or very few flowers form.
3. Remedial measures
If the plant is grown at home and is still outdoors, bring it indoors for care; if it has been frostbitten even indoors, then observe its surroundings and take artificial warming measures. You can also move it into a greenhouse for care. Or, you can take other cold-protection measures, such as covering it with plastic film, etc. To reiterate, you must remedy the situation promptly.
4. Points to note
Besides temperature, you also need to pay special attention to light in winter. Especially when it is in bloom, light must not be lacking.