Gabe Stark
The Trenton Telegraph

Members of the Grand River Garden Club gathered Monday at the local Pizza Hut to delve into the world of holiday cacti, led by Marilyn Booth.

Booth’s presentation detailed how to distinguish between Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving cacti, highlighting the unique features of each plant’s segments and offering vital tips on care and propagation.

Booth explained that the Christmas cactus is known for its smooth, scalloped segments that link together, giving the plant its characteristic drooping branches. In contrast, the Thanksgiving cactus features pointed, claw-like segments with hooked ends, while the Easter cactus boasts rounded segments with tiny bristles where they join.

“Understanding the shape of the leaves is crucial for identifying the type of holiday cactus you have and ensuring the right care so it blooms annually,” Booth said.

She also recommended using terracotta or clay pots for Christmas cacti to prevent over-watering and suggested placing the plants near an east or west-facing window for optimal light. Fertilizing in spring and early summer with a balanced fertilizer was another key tip for healthy growth.

In addition to the main program, club president Dorothy Taul gave a brief presentation on fall mums, emphasizing their vibrant blooms and historical significance.

“Mums are one of the oldest known flowers, cultivated by the Chinese for over 2,000 years,” Taul said. She advised planting mums in well-drained soil with at least eight hours of sunlight and using a granular fertilizer like 5-10-5. Regular pinching encourages bushy growth and more blossoms, while consistent watering—about one and a half inches of rain each week—is essential.

The meeting concluded with members sharing their favorite Thanksgiving dishes and reflecting on thoughts from their morning routines, adding a personal touch to the informative gathering.