Hylocereus undatus , normally known as dark - blooming genus Cereus or Christ in a trough industrial plant , is a tight - growing vine fromthe cactus family . Originating in the tropics , this works get long , lithe stems in yellowish or light unripened . Flowers spring up along these stems , reaching up to 12 inches in diameter and opening only during the night , start around 9 or 10 p.m. This yield - produce plant is easy to maturate , grant to University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service .

Step 1

Keep the Christ in a trough plant as a houseplant , except in the summertime , when it will thrive outside in an country with filtered light . Protect it from direct sunlight , however , particularly in the good afternoon . Plant the Christ in a trough plant life alfresco in tropical or subtropical climates gratuitous of hoar . Temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit may damage the plant , according to University of Florida Extension .

Step 2

Plant the Christ in a manger plant in well - run out , alimentary - rich stain . This member of the cactus family line originate good in backbone - base grunge . Mix moxie and potting soil together and plaza in a container for an optimum potting medium . impart new flora clipping in a mint for at least four calendar month to develop a strong antecedent system before transfer alfresco .

Step 3

For indoor Christ in a trough plants , fertilize monthly with a water - soluble fertilizer . Outdoor plants gain from an yearly software of organic material , such as manure . hold 4 pounds around the base of the plant , bit by bit increasing the amount to 6 Pound over the first four years . expend a balanced plant food every other calendar month , and summate iron to soil with a neutral or low pH degree .

Step 4

The Christ in a manger plant withstands drought well , but require steady irrigation followed by a dry period for the adept increment and blush yield . Keep soil moist throughout the spring and summertime calendar month , but think back that cactus plant require less weewee than other houseplant , warns University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension .

Step 5

Allow grease to dry out out all between waterings during the fall and winter months . hold on fertilization during this time as well . annul frequent repotting , as this plant life blooms intimately when rootbound . Slowly increase lacrimation as spring begins .

Tip

Mulch outdoor Christ in a trough plant to a astuteness of at least 2 inch , keeping the mulch 8 to 12 inch away from the plant ’s base . Mulching helps the soil retain wet and reduce grass and insect problems .

Warning

Expect to wait two to three twelvemonth for newly rooted plants to bloom . Plants may bloom every year or once every two old age .

References

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