How to Grow Epiphyllum Orchid Cactus | Growing Epiphyllum Cacti

If you want an easy-growing plant with stunning flowers, then read our detailed guide on How to Grow Epiphyllum Orchid Cactus and add it to your plant collection!

Cacti are one of the easiest to maintain specimens that also suit the Indian climate well. Learn How to Grow Epiphyllum Orchid Cactus and add it to your home and garden!

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What is Epiphyllum Orchid Cactus?

Epiphyllum orchid cactus is a tropical epiphyte with flat, non-spiny, and trailing stems. The main attraction is its large and fragrant flowers that come in red, white, orange, yellow, pink, and purple colors.

These flowers repeatedly bloom from spring to summer and look fabulous in hanging baskets and window boxes.

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How to Propagate Epiphyllum Orchid Cactus

Cut 5-7 inches long stem cutting from the plant and allow it to dry out for 4-7 days to form callus. Then, plant the cutting vertically in a potting mix. Keep it where the cutting gets bright and indirect light.

Mist the cutting regularly and adequately whenever topsoil feels dry. New shoots will develop in 2-3 weeks.

Note: You can also grow this plant from seeds but it’s a time-consuming process and the germination rate is also not guaranteed.

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Growing Epiphyllum Orchid Cactus

Sunlight

The orchid cactus plant grows best in 4-5 hours of direct light. Avoid keeping it in a dark spot. For blooms, you have to make sure that it gets plenty of sun.

Watering

This epiphytic plant is fond of slightly moist but not soggy soil. Water the plant only when the top 2-inches of the soil feels dry to touch. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause fungal issues.

Soil

It belongs to the tropics and hence requires well-draining, porous, and slightly humus-rich soil for best growth. You can also use regular potting mix well amended with organic matter like compost or aged cow dung manure.

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Taking Care of Epiphyllum Orchid Cactus

Fertilizer

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength, once in 7-8 weeks. Do not overfeed the plant as it will cease flower production.

Potting and Re-potting

Re-pot the plant once in 2-3 years, right after it flowers. Make sure to choose a one-size larger pot with fresh potting mix.

Pests and Diseases

This plant is susceptible to mealybugs, scales, aphids, and mites attacks. Deter them off using a strong jet of water or with the help of organic pesticides like neem oil or soap solution.