Schlumbergera spp.
Quick answer
Your Christmas cactus can droop when the soil is too dry or too wet, and the leaves can look the same in both cases. Check the soil first.
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The flat green parts of a Christmas cactus are segmented stems. Check the segments, their joints and the base. This forest cactus needs different watering from desert cacti.
How to tell
The soil is bone dry and the whole plant has gone limp, often with shriveled segments beforehand.
The fix
If the soil is dry, water thoroughly (for a Christmas cactus that’s usually every 8 to 12 days in summer). It takes a few days to firm up again.
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How to tell
Soggy roots can also cause drooping because damaged roots cannot take up water. The soil is wet, the base feels soft, and adding more water makes the damage worse. Small dark flies around moist potting medium may be fungus gnats. They suggest conditions suitable for breeding, without proving that the surface never dries.
The fix
Hold off while the mix is wet. Inspect the roots, remove soft, rotten roots with clean tools and repot in fresh, well-drained, lightly moist mix. Let excess water drain away and avoid drying the entire root ball. Water according to moisture, only when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry. Check drainage and do not water just because a calendar says it is time.
How to tell
It sits near a cold window, an outside door or an air-con vent, and looks limp after cold nights or while the vent is running.
The fix
Move it away from the draft to a spot with steadier temperatures.
How to tell
Drooping began after a purchase, move or repot. A move can change light and temperature without disturbing the roots.
The fix
Check moisture and roots before changing anything. Keep its spot and care steady and don’t fertilize while it settles. If roots were damaged, follow this plant’s repotting guidance. Water according to moisture, only when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry. Check drainage and do not water just because a calendar says it is time.
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