Schlumbergera 'Barbara'

Spring-Autumn · Indoors

Feed with high potash feed twice

Use a houseplant fertiliser that is high in potassium several times while the plant is in flower.

Where fertiliser values are listed on a packet they are in order - nitrogen, phosphate, potassium with percentage values of each. For high potassium choose a fertiliser where potash is higher.

Spring-Autumn · Indoors

Water regularly during growth

Water regularly while in growth.

Adopt a regime that means the plants are thoroughly watered every week so that they do not become dessicated. In hot weather watering may need to be more frequent, but less often in cool or moist conditions.

Winter-Spring · Indoors

Water lightly in winter

The soil should remain just moist during the cold months when the plant is not in growth. Trickle a little water onto the soil surface every couple of weeks if the soil is dry. Do nothing if it is moist.

The roots remain active in winter and benefit from small amounts of moisture so they don't become completely desiccated.

Indoor temperature · Planting

13C minimum temperature

This plant requires a minimum temperature of 13 Centigrade.

Compost · Planting

Cactus epiphyte compost for repotting

If enriched compost or a specialist mix is not available, you can use a standard cactus compost mixed with an equal addition of leaf mould or organic material.

To make your own one 'recipe' suggests a mix made up of 50 percent John Innes no. 2, plus equal quantities of horticultural fine grit and leaf mould, or organic material, or fine chopped bark. Other 'recipes' are available from specialists.

Indoor plant · Planting

Position in a bright spot, no direct sun

Give this a bright position away from the direct sun, especially direct sun at the height of the day. (Direct sunshine is too hot and can burn the leaves.) Move the plant to a brighter position in the room during winter and early spring.