Cultural information should only be used as a guide, and should be to be adapted to suit you. Your physical location; where you grow your plants, how much time you have to devote to their care, and many other factors, will need to be taken into account. Only then can you decide on the cultural methods that best suit you and your plants.
Epiphyllum cacti are tender, and most won't survive temperatures below 10°. They are best grown as houseplants or in a heated greenhouse, in pots or hanging baskets. They can be moved temporarily outdoors in summer, into a warm, lightly shaded spot.
During the growing season, from spring to autumn, they should be kept above 15°C.
In winter, move to a cooler place, at 11–14°C, to encourage flowering. Once flower buds appear, return them to their usual position, at 15°C or above, where they will then bloom.
Keep them away from radiators and other heat sources, and out of cold draughts.
Epiphyllum cacti like lots of bright, filtered light. But keep them out of strong midday sun, especially in summer, as this can scorch them.
They need moderate to high humidity, so stand the container in a tray of damp gravel. Keep the water level below the base of the container, so the compost doesn't become saturated.
Watering
From mid-spring to late summer, water regularly to keep the compost slightly moist but not soggy. Water whenever it begins to dry out, and let the excess drain away. Don't leave plants standing in water.
In winter, reduce watering when you move the plants to a cooler spot. Keep the compost only just damp, but never completely dry.
Tips:
- If growing outdoors in summer, position in a shady, sheltered spot, protected from drying winds
- always make sure to research where the species you grow comes from and how it grows in its natural habitat. It's the best way to find out which conditions to try to imitate at home, so that your plants not only survive, but thrive.
