---
title: "How to water a Christmas cactus"
description: "Water your Christmas cactus correctly. Learn its unique tropical needs, when to water, and effective methods like top, bottom, and water baths."
url: "https://getplanta.com/discover/watering/christmascactus"
published: "2025-11-20T08:44:39.898Z"
modified: "2026-10-06T10:11:59.143Z"
author: "Planta"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/public/content/S6e3plQlR3imUVOFVjg27A.webp?size=large"
---

# How to water a Christmas cactus

## How to water

The Christmas cactus comes from tropical origins which is why it requires more water than other types of cacti. However, this doesn't mean that you should water it a lot and it still handles drought much better than too much water so it's better to let it dry up than watering it too much.

Feel the soil, the top layer (at least 2 inches) should be dry before giving more water. If the soil is still wet you risk giving the plant too much water and it can rot.

**If the soil is wet - snooze this action, we will remind you again in 2 days.**

![](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/public/content/S6e3plQlR3imUVOFVjg27A.webp?size=large)

## Water over the soil

1. Pour water over the soil, using, for example, a watering can or put the plant directly under a tap
2. Continue adding water to the pot until it starts to run out from the drainage holes
3. If you have a tray under the pot when watering, make sure you remove all the collected water afterwards - never let your plant sit in water
4. If you watered under a tap make sure that water has stopped running out from the bottom before putting it back

> Make sure your pot has drainage holes, without these your plant runs the risk of rotting in the excess water that can’t drain out.  
> — Planta tip

![](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/public/content/jjB6LC-7Qqy-8B0LzcM2IA.webp?size=large)

## Bottom watering

1. Fill the plant tray with water
2. Make sure the soil is in contact with the water on the tray
3. Wait for about 10 minutes
4. Feel the soil to see if it absorbed enough water —> if the soil is moist throughout, remove any excess water from the tray
5. If it’s still dry —> add more water to the tray
6. Wait 20 more minutes before removing the excess

### Note

Bottom watering will not wash away salts and other minerals from the soil, so make sure to also give water over the soil every now and then.

## Water bath

1. Fill a bucket or any other vessel with lukewarm water
2. Lower the whole pot down in the water, stop where the stem of the plant starts. Make sure all of the soil is under water
3. The water will now start to bubble - wait until it stopped
4. Lift the pot up and let the excess drain off
5. Put the plant back in the cachepot or on the tray
6. After 1 hour, check that the plant isn’t standing in water, if it is it might get overwatered and rot

## Veelgestelde vragen

### When should I water my Christmas cactus?

Check the soil first; the top two inches should be dry before you water your Christmas cactus again. This helps prevent overwatering, which is more harmful than letting it dry out a bit.

### Does a Christmas cactus need more water than other cacti?

Yes, coming from tropical origins, a Christmas cactus requires more water than typical desert cacti. However, it still handles drought better than excessive water.

### Why is drainage important when watering a Christmas cactus?

Proper drainage is crucial because if your Christmas cactus sits in excess water, its roots can rot. Always ensure your pot has drainage holes and remove any standing water from trays.

### What is the water bath method for watering a Christmas cactus?

The water bath method involves submerging the pot in lukewarm water until bubbling stops, ensuring all soil is covered. After draining the excess water, check after an hour to confirm the plant isn't sitting in water.

## How to water a Christmas cactus

1. Pour water over the soil, using a watering can or by placing the plant directly under a tap.
2. Continue adding water to the pot until it starts to run out from the drainage holes.
3. If you have a tray under the pot, remove all collected water afterward; never let your plant sit in water.
4. If you watered under a tap, make sure water has stopped running out from the bottom before putting the plant back.

---

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