Whether you’re growing them in your garden or inside your house, you need to pay close attention to moon cactus care tips. If you do, you can ensure that your cactus stays healthy and vibrant for as long as possible!
They are easy to grow and require very little maintenance. But, just like all plants, they can also be susceptible to pests, diseases and other problems.
Watering
Watering moon cactus is a crucial part of maintaining their health. These unique little plants are unable to produce chlorophyll, so it’s critical to keep them properly watered to ensure their bright colors stay vibrant.
Generally speaking, it is recommended to water your moon cactus every week. You should always be careful not to overwater, which can kill the plant and its roots.
If you do overwater your moon cactus, be sure to thoroughly dry it before re-watering again. This will prevent the cactus from getting root rot and a weak or yellowing appearance.
This cactus species is not difficult to grow, but it can be tricky to care for because of its distinct needs. The colorful top portion (scion) is able to tolerate only shade, but the lower host (Hylocereus) likes full sun.
Temperature
When caring for a moon cactus, the temperature of your home is vital. These desert plants thrive in temperatures that are similar to their natural habitat.
However, you should also remember that this type of cactus can suffer if the temperature is too cold or too hot. It should be kept at a temperature of 75°F (25°C).
Another thing to consider when caring for your moon cactus is light. This is because this cactus is a combination of two different cacti that require different amounts of light.
The bottom green cactus prefers to be exposed to intense direct sunlight, while the top colorful cactus needs shade. This can be a challenging situation for the plant, but it is important to keep both cacti healthy and happy.
Fertilization
When caring for moon cactus, it is important to fertilize it on a regular basis. This will help the plant thrive and keep its color bright and vibrant.
Moreover, it will encourage the scion to grow stronger and more resilient. It will also reduce the likelihood of the plant suffering from malnourishment, which is one of the reasons why these cacti tend to die quickly.
You can use liquid or granules when feeding your moon cactus, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions. The key is to apply the fertilizer to the soil and water thoroughly. Doing this will ensure that you don’t apply too much or too little. You should also flush the soil before applying the fertilizer, as this will prevent mineral salts from building up and stunting cactus growth.
Pruning
Moon cactus is an easy-to-care-for grafted cactus that features a colorful ball-shaped top. These plants are available in many colors, including pink, yellow, and orange.
They are grafted on to a rootstock, or lower host cactus, which produces the necessary chlorophyll for these cacti to thrive. These cacti are commonly found in desert environments in South America, and they have become popular small houseplants.
The graft can separate after a few years, so you may need to replant the scion onto another cactus rootstock. If the scion survives this separation, it will produce offsets, or pups. These are small versions of the scion that divide easily and grow quickly in a cactus potting soil.
Pests
Moon cacti are not able to photosynthesize on their own, which makes them dependent on a host plant. As a result, they typically don’t last very long if kept indoors.
To help your cactus survive, you need to make sure it receives enough sunlight to photosynthesise. This can be done by placing your moon cactus near a window or in a greenhouse.
Overwatering can also lead to rot and root damage, so always water your moon cactus only when the soil feels dry. This will ensure that the roots don’t get swollen and rot.
To fertilize your moon cactus, use a balanced liquid or granules plant food. Be sure to dilute it to half-strength before applying to the soil.