Light
Unlike desert cacti, the mistletoe cactus is sensitive to direct sunlight and prefers a location that receives bright to medium indirect light. It can even do well in lower light locations, although you won’t see as much growth.
Soil
The mistletoe cactus requires a moist but well-draining potting mix, and prefers soil that is slightly acidic. While it will likely survive in a standard commercial potting soil, it will thrive in a potting mixture that is designed for its specific needs. Try combining one part regular potting mix, one part orchid bark, and one part perlite together for a potting mix that is rich, airy, and well-draining.
Water
This tropical cactus prefers that its soil is kept evenly moist, and should not be allowed to dry out completely. At the same time, avoid waterlogging the soil by ensuring that your pot has proper drainage and your soil mixture allows water to flow through it. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings.
Temperature and Humidity
Given that the mistletoe cactus is native to tropical and subtropical regions, it thrives in warm, humid conditions. For the most part, average household temperatures work well for the mistletoe cactus which is why it is so popular as a houseplant. Just ensure that temperatures stay between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit (16-27 degrees Celsius) and it will be happy. However, you may need to provide some extra humidity for your mistletoe cactus to ensure that the stems don’t start to dry out. Try placing a pebble tray filled with water beneath the plant, or place a small humidifier nearby.
Fertilizer
The mistletoe cactus appreciates regular fertilization throughout the growing season, although it is considered a light feeder. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength to your mistletoe cactus once a month during the spring and summer.
Propagating the Mistletoe Cactus
Like most succulents, the mistletoe cactus can be easily propagated by stem cuttings. Not only is propagating your mistletoe cactus an easy way to create new plants, but it will also encourage your plant to branch out and become more bushy over time. It is best to propagate your cactus during its active growing period, so avoid taking cuttings during the fall and winter when the plant has gone into dormancy. Here’s how you can propagate a mistletoe cactus by stem cuttings in a few easy steps:
Common Problems With the Mistletoe Cactus
For the most part the mistletoe cactus is easy to grow indoors and growers don’t usually run into that many issues. That being said, if you do notice problems with your mistletoe cactus, it is likely a result of either over watering, or under-watering.
Wilting, Mushy Stems
Wilting stems that are showing signs of becoming mushy at the base are a sign of overwatering, and usually root rot. Unfortunately there is no way to cure root rot once it has started, so you will need to remove any affected pieces and cut away any rotted roots. Ensure that your potting container has adequate drainage and that your soil is well-draining to avoid root rot, and allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Browning Tips
Stems that are turning brown and crispy at the tips are usually a sign of under-watering or a lack of humidity. Ensure that your mistletoe cactus is exposed to adequate humidity and avoid placing it next to an area with dry air, such as near a heating or cooling vent. Avoid under watering your plant by keeping the soil evenly moist and only allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry between waterings.
