Q: I have a question about my Christmas cactus.  I have had the plant for over a year and my mother in law had the plant for a while before me.  It always flowered for her, and It hasn't flowered once while I've had it.  What am I doing wrong?

A: The soil must be kept moist during the growing season, but somewhat dry when the plant is resting. Full sunlight and and average room temperatures are recommended. Short days are required to induce blooming. On September 1, the plant should have total darkness from 6:00 pm to 8:00 am until buds form. Or, if the plant is in a cool room (I have read 53 degrees or also I have read below 68 degrees but above 42 degrees) from mid-September to mid-October, flowers will be produced regardless of the day length.