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Home > Plant Care Guide > Moonlight Cactus

How to Care for Moonlight Cactus

Moonlight cactus (Cereus spegazzinii) is a plant species native to Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia. The moonlight cactus is widely distributed in the wild where it grows at the edges of forests and is not considered endangered. This species is often grown in pots and rocky gardens.

Symbolism

Maternal love or warmth

Water

Every 3 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Basic Care Guide

Water

Moonlight cactus is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require frequent watering. Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. When potted, water slowly, wait for water to flow out the bottom, and then pour the excess water from the tray to avoid water accumulation.

Spring, summer, and fall are its growing seasons. Water once or twice a week to keep the soil slightly wet. In winter, water less; just keep the soil from drying excessively; usually once a week. Besides, water with rainwater or distilled water rather than tap water.

Tap water contains a lot of calcium, magnesium, and other mineral salts. Long-term use tends to cause soil compaction. Avoid splashing water on its stem when watering to prevent rotting.

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What should I do if I water my Moonlight cactus too much or too little?

Underwatered Moonlight cactus

Moonlight cactus and other succulents can endure long periods without water, so it’s unusual to find one of these suffering from underwatering. But, if you somehow forgot about your plant and neglected to water it for a month or more, you’ll probably find your Moonlight cactus looking thirsty or with some leaf damage from lack of watering.

It is very easy to identify an underwatered Moonlight cactus. The leaves will look shriveled, dry, and flat. Some may have dried up completely, turned brown and crispy, or dropped off the plant, starting with the lower leaves and moving upward as the dry conditions continue. And of course, the soil will be completely dried out.

If your Moonlight cactus is thirsty and underwatered, give it plenty of water as soon as possible. Submerging the pot entirely in water for about 5-10 minutes is a good way to make sure the soil and plant are rehydrated properly. When you feel a sense of moisture on the surface of the soil with your finger, it means the watering is done properly. If there are dried out leaves still attached, go ahead and pluck them off to make room for new growth.

Overwatered Moonlight cactus

Overwatering is dangerous to Moonlight cactus and can be fatal to your plant if you don’t remedy the situation. Too much moisture over time leads to root rot, which prevents the roots from being able to absorb nutrients and water from the soil. Root rot occurs when wet conditions allow fungi and bacteria to flourish in the soil and feed on roots. When you find that it's overwatered, you'd better change the growing conditions, place it somewhere with more air ventilation and adjust water frequency, for example.

The symptoms of overwatering are yellow, swollen, and translucent leaves that may even burst open from being over-full with water. If the problem continues without being treated, leaves might turn brown or black, and fall off the plant at the slightest touch. Be sure to check the soil to determine if overwatering is the culprit, as some other issues can cause similar symptoms.

It’s a bit difficult (but not impossible) to save an overwatered plant. The key is catching it early before a lot of damage has occurred. If the roots become rotten, it is likely to kill the entire plant. If you suspect you have overwatered your Moonlight cactus, the first step is to remove it from its pot and check the roots and soil.

After removing the plant from its pot, gently remove wet soil from around the roots and then rinse them clean in room-temperature water. This helps with removing fungus that might be lurking in the soil and allows you to get a better sense of how healthy the roots are. If your plant has already developed root rot, you will see roots that are dark brown or black, soft, mushy, or slimy.

If the majority of the roots are already affected by root rot, it may not be possible to save the plant. In this case, it is best to remove any healthy leaves and try to use these to propagate a new Moonlight cactus. Luckily, this plant is easy to propagate even from a single leaf. If, on the other hand, only a portion of the roots have succumbed to rot and other healthy roots still remain, there is a chance it can be saved.

Use a sterilized cutting tool to remove any unhealthy-looking roots. Once you're left with only the firm, pale roots, it’s a good idea to dip them in a fungicide to kill off any remaining spores. After that you can repot your Moonlight cactus in fresh, free-draining potting soil. While this does not always work to save a succulent with root rot, in most cases this plant will be able to make a full recovery and will put out new growth starting in the next growing season.

How often should I water my Moonlight cactus?

There’s not a hard-and-fast rule for how often to water Moonlight cactus. The best way to determine this is to check the soil and only water when it’s bone dry. You can either stick your finger in the pot or use a moisture meter to check the soil below the surface. When you plant it in a deep pot, you can do this with a stick or chopstick. If it feels even a little bit moist, wait a few days and check it again.

Most people will need to water Moonlight cactus about every two weeks in summer and once a month in winter, but there are several factors that can change the frequency. The section below lists some considerations that can help you to determine how often to water.

What should I consider when watering my Moonlight cactus?

There are several environmental conditions that will affect how your Moonlight cactus needs to be watered, including the container size, soil type, temperature, and humidity.

First off, the container and soil you use will determine how often to water and how much water to use each time. Be sure you use a container with plenty of drainage holes in the bottom so extra water can escape the pot. A small container has less room for soil, meaning it won’t hold as much moisture, while a larger pot will stay wet longer and need to be watered less often. It’s important not to keep your Moonlight cactus in an oversized pot as this can easily lead to overwatering. When repotting, move to just one size larger than the current container. A shallow container works better than a deep one, since Moonlight cactus has shallow root systems.

Moonlight cactus will need to be watered less often in winter and more often in the active growing season in spring and autumn. During the winter, growth slows down considerably and the plant isn’t using much energy or water. There is less water lost to evaporation in cooler winter air, meaning that soil stays wet for much longer than it would in the summer.

This also applies to the general climate around your home. If you live in a humid location with a lot of rain, you will need to water less often than if you live in a dry, arid climate. Remember that conditions at the same geographic location can vary significantly with the season and the use of indoor heating and air conditioning.

Outdoor Planting

If Moonlight cactus is planted in the ground, after establishing a root system, it shouldn’t need supplemental water beyond what it receives through precipitation and dew. But if there is a long dry period, you may want to water occasionally. In other areas where Moonlight cactus can only be grown in a container, this plant can be moved outside in the spring and summer when the temperature is proper and then brought back inside when temperatures start to drop. A potted Moonlight cactus kept outside usually needs more water than the same plant kept indoors, because there is a lot more sun exposure even on a shaded porch.

How to water Moonlight cactus?

The best way to water Moonlight cactus is to soak it thoroughly and then allow it to dry out before it gets watered again. Since this plant is somewhat drought tolerant, you can let it get quite dry before watering again. It is always better to give this type of plant too little water over too much.

When you water, make sure the soil gets thoroughly soaked throughout the whole pot. Don’t pour the water in just one spot, but rather try to go around the whole rim of the planter to be sure that it has a chance to get wet on all sides of the plant. The correct amount of water will depend on the size of your container and how much water your soil absorbs. Give your Moonlight cactus enough water that it drains out from the drainage holes and then (ideally) leave the drained water in the saucer for about 20-30 minutes to absorb into dry pockets of soil. After that, discard any excess water that’s still in the saucer to avoid the soil getting waterlogged.

Bottom-watering is also an excellent method for the Moonlight cactus, as you can be sure that the soil gets thoroughly moistened. This process involves placing the pot into a saucer of water and allowing the soil to absorb moisture through the drainage holes. You will know that the soil has absorbed enough water when the top layer is moist. This takes a bit more time than top-watering, but is almost foolproof in getting an even distribution of water throughout the pot.

The original habitat of Moonlight cactus is relatively dry with little rain, but when it rains, the soil will be thoroughly moistened. So you can mimic this situation by bottom-watering your plant when the soil is totally dry. Deep soil bathing is better than frequent light watering for Moonlight cactus.

Fertilizer

In growing seasons (namely spring, summer and fall), fertilize moonlight cactus once a month with liquid fertilizer. No fertilizer is required in winter. A small amount of slow-release fertilizer can be well mixed into the soil when repotting in spring or fall.

Use nitrogen fertilizer during seedling and phosphate-potassium fertilizer before and after blooming. The fertilizer concentration should be as low as possible. It would be better to apply low-concentrate fertilizer several times rather than to use a high concentration. If the base is yellow and grows slowly, the cause may be excessive fertilizer, and fertilization should be immediately stopped.

Often found growing in rock gardens and used in xeriscaping, Moonlight cactus adds plenty of interest and texture to the area. It is a slow-growing plant, and this affects its care. Moonlight cactus does not require a lot of nutrients to thrive. Knowing when and how to feed your specimen will help ensure you get years of enjoyment from your plant. Fertilizing Moonlight cactus adds nutrients to the growing medium. Even though it does store water and nutrients, applying plant food during the growing season helps support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also encourage mature specimens to produce blooms in the growing season.

While all plants benefit from additional nutrients, Moonlight cactus only needs a light dose of fertilizer during the growing season. The frequency of fertilization should be 1-2 times a year. It is suggested to fertilize your Moonlight cactus in the spring and autumn, but not in winter&summer when it is dormant. Be careful with repotted plants, you will want to reduce the amount of fertilizer. It’s also a good idea to wait a couple of months after repotting before you start applying fertilizer. It’s best to use a liquid plant food formulated for succulents and cacti when you are fertilizing Moonlight cactus. Dilute the fertilizer with water to half-strength. You do not want the fertilizer building up in the soil. Apply the fertilizer to the base of the plant and water thoroughly, ensuring any excess moisture drains from the container or seeps into the ground.

It is easier to use liquid plant food when you are fertilizing Moonlight cactus, but granules are another option. Follow the directions on the packaging, making sure you dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength. Whether you are using granules are liquid plant food, always apply it to the soil. Cover the granules with a thin layer of soil and water regardless of the type of plant food you are using.

Over-fertilizing Moonlight cactus is a common problem with new and experienced gardeners. The plant has low nutritional needs and it’s easy to apply a little too much fertilizer. Over-fertilizing Moonlight cactus can burn the plant’s sensitive roots resulting in its slow decay. Without its root system, the plant cannot absorb nutrients and moisture.

Like most plants, Moonlight cactus has a dormancy period and it is when you want to stop the applications of fertilizer. In the summer and winter, the plant ceases growing, and it is when you want to stop applying fertilizer. It’s also a good idea to cease fertilizing for the first couple of months after repotting in the spring.

Why do I need to fertilize my Moonlight cactus?

Fertilizing Moonlight cactus adds nutrients to the growing medium. Even though it does store water and nutrients, applying plant food during the growing season helps support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also encourage mature specimens to produce blooms in the growing season.

When is the best time to fertilize my Moonlight cactus?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Moonlight cactus?

What type of fertilizer does my Moonlight cactus need?

It’s best to use a liquid plant food formulated for succulents and cacti when you are fertilizing Moonlight cactus. Dilute the fertilizer with water to half-strength. You do not want the fertilizer building up in the soil. Apply the fertilizer to the base of the plant and water thoroughly, ensuring any excess moisture drains from the container or seeps into the ground.

How do I fertilize my Moonlight cactus?

What happens if I fertilize my Moonlight cactus too much?

Sunlight

Moonlight cactus is a heliophilic plant and needs sufficient sunlight for its growth and blooming. It can be placed on the outdoor balcony or in the garden without shade. However, long-time exposure to blazing sunlight should be avoided in hot summer, when it needs to be shaded or cooled a little to prevent high temperatures from damaging it.

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How much sunlight does Moonlight cactus need to grow?

Moonlight cactus should get at least 6 hours of sun per day, and preferably more. An actual minimum number of hours can vary depending on the intensity of sunlight and other environmental factors, but it is unlikely that the Moonlight cactus will get too much sunlight. They do fine with up to 14 hours of sun per day.

What type of sunlight does Moonlight cactus need?

Moonlight cactus needs a lot of bright sunlight. As full-sun plants, they can thrive when given direct light or bright indirect sun. Some types may be able to survive with partial sun, but more sunlight is generally better.

Should I protect Moonlight cactus from sun exposure?

Moonlight cactus usually grows in some of the hottest, sunniest places in the world and is well adapted to that kind of environment, so it does not need to be protected from the sun. However, you should be careful about making a sudden move into a very sunny location if your Moonlight cactus is not used to it. Plants need time to adapt to different conditions, so start by moving this plant into the sun for a couple of hours at a time each day, then gradually lengthen the amount of sun exposure. Once adapted, most types of Moonlight cactus will be fine in full sun and don't need protection.

What will happen if Moonlight cactus doesn't get enough sunlight?

Without enough sunlight, Moonlight cactus will fail to thrive and grow. Common symptoms of inadequate sunlight include pale coloring, wilting leaves, and leaf drop. Moonlight cactus may also exhibit etiolation (also called legginess). This condition occurs as the plant attempts to stretch toward the light source, leading to a sparse appearance and weak stems.

What will happen if Moonlight cactus gets too much sunlight?

Moonlight cactus may develop shades of red, pink, or orange as a means of protection from excess sunlight, so many people like to cause mild sun stress to these plants during the summer. This is not harmful, and they will revert to their normal coloring when light levels decrease from autumn to spring.

If moved too quickly into direct sun, Moonlight cactus can suffer from sunburn. This looks like white or brown spots on the uppermost leaves that have been exposed to the most sun. A sunburned plant should be moved to a shadier location and watered if needed. Sun-damaged leaves can be removed, and should be replaced by new growth over time.

Does Moonlight cactus need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

As with most plants, younger Moonlight cactus will be more sensitive to strong sunlight and heat than a mature specimen. They should also be protected from direct sun immediately after being transplanted, either by a shade or by keeping the container in a shadier location until the plant is established and putting out new growth.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Moonlight cactus?

It is best to water Moonlight cactus in the morning, particularly during the summer months. If water sits on the leaves or in the crown of the plant, it can burn the plant when the water heats up. It’s also best not to water in the evening, since cooler overnight temperatures slow evaporation and fungi or bacteria can develop in the moist conditions.

Moonlight cactus grown in pots should be rotated occasionally to keep them growing symmetrically. Plants will normally grow toward the light source, so they can develop much more quickly on one side than the other if they are not rotated.

If Moonlight cactus is allowed to get dusty, it will not be able to access sunlight to create energy. The dust acts as a barrier, so the plant may show signs of inadequate light even if it’s in a sunny location. Keep the leaves and stems clean by wiping them periodically with a damp cloth to avoid this issue.

Pruning

Moonlight cactus does not require much pruning. Remove withered flowers and branches so the plant uses nutrients on healthy growth.

Advanced Care Guide

Temperature

Moonlight cactus is distributed throughout tropical, subtropical, and semi-desert regions with scarce rainfall, intense sunlight, and hot temperatures. The optimum temperature for growth is 20 to 35 ℃. Lower than 10 ℃ or higher than 35 ℃, growth slows and dormancy begins. The air humidity should not be too high and the environment should be well-ventilated. Avoid high humidity and accumulated water.

What's the ideal temperature for your Moonlight cactus?

It is more suitable to keep the Moonlight cactus in a particular range of conditions. Temperatures the same as 75-90℉ (25-32℃) are ideal for it. During the early winter season, the temperature shouldn't go below 75℉(25℃) for Moonlight cactus. You can even move it indoors as it will have better protection from the extremes.

Despite that, the Moonlight cactus can survive in some extreme temperatures. Sometimes can survive in low temperatures like 50℉ (15℃), but it is not ideal. You should bring it inside if winter conditions are expected outside.

How should I adjust the temperature for my Moonlight cactus during different growing phases?

Moonlight cactus has different growing phases. In the first stage, the dormant seed grows and transforms into a seedling. The dormant seeds need the appropriate conditions in their surroundings to grow as their seeds need a temperature of 75-90℉ (25-32℃) to germinate. The ideal time to make it grow vigorously is during the summer, as the most suitable temperature is around 85℉(30℃). You can adjust the placement of your Moonlight cactus from indoors to sunlight during the hot summer months to receive enough sunlight.

How can I keep my Moonlight cactus warm in cold seasons?

It's advisable to bring your Moonlight cactus indoors to avoid the harsh winter conditions. People opt to buy different types of grow light to provide enough sunlight for the plant. However, if your home is not extremely dark, it is not essential to buy these lights. Keep your plants where they will get the most sunlight possible. There should be sufficient light to keep the Moonlight cactus thriving in winter. If you have several Moonlight cactus, then keep them rotating so that they all receive enough sunlight.

Avoid placing your Moonlight cactus too close to the window if you live in northern areas with frigid weather. The cold may be extreme to them, due to which they might get damaged.

What happens to my Moonlight cactus when the temperature is too high or too low?

Your Moonlight cactus can grow better in summers and do better in warm temperatures 90℉(32℃) but you should protect it from temperature extremes during hot climates.

However, during winter, it is better to keep your plant dry. Moonlight cactus do well in temperate climates having temperatures between 75-90℉ (25-32℃). However, some gardeners can expose their Moonlight cactus to extreme temperatures causing stress in their plants. While high temperatures ranging between 90℉ and 95℉(32-35℃) can help maintain the deep colors for Moonlight cactus, you must be careful when trying out such experiment. During the hot summer season extremely high temperatures can burn your Moonlight cactus damaging their stem and root system. During the hottest time of the day (when the temperature is extremely high), consider relocating your plant to a shaded place or protect them with a shade cloth.

How should I adjust the temperature for my Moonlight cactus in different seasons?

In summers, high temperatures make the growth of Moonlight cactus slowed down to survive in too hot a temperature.

As the cooler periods and rainfall begins, the Moonlight cactus starts growing. If the place you live in has hot summers and warm winters with more rainfalls, you aren't required to change anything.

However, if you live in a place with cold winters, you should let your Moonlight cactus grow more in summer and rest in winter. It is because there is not enough sunlight for Moonlight cactus to grow in winter.

You can help your Moonlight cactus enter dormancy if you live in a place with cold temperatures by decreasing the temperature to 50℉ to 75℉ (15℃ to 25℃).

How can I keep my Moonlight cactus warm without a heating pad?

To withstand freezing temperatures outside, as a solution, you can insulate your Moonlight cactus with frost cloths, row covers, tents etc. You can also mulch your Moonlight cactus with small rocks. Mulching the Moonlight cactus soil will provide warmth to your plants and will not let you over-water the plant.

How can I protect my Moonlight cactus from temperature damage?

Moonlight cactus is adapted to sunlight and requires sufficient sunlight for healthy growth. You can place it in an outdoor environment without any shade. However, Moonlight cactus shouldn't be kept for a long time in the blazing sunlight in the hot summer when it requires to be put under shade so that extreme temperature doesn't damage them. If the winter is extreme in our area, you must keep your Moonlight cactus indoors to keep them away from frost.

What are the tips and precautions for keeping my Moonlight cactus at the right temperature?

Increase water and fertilizer during the growth of plants in spring and summer. Prevent your plant from receiving too much sunlight. To cool plants, spray water around them when the temperature is exceptionally high but don't put water on their stem.

Soil

Moonlight cactus grows best in fertile, gravel-rich, water-permeable soil with a pH value of 6-7. The culture soil formula often used is 60% vermiculite + 20% coco coir or peat moss + 20% sandy soil. A small amount of organic potting soil can also be added. Lightweight culture media such as vermiculite can be added to improve the air permeability of the soil. Eggshell powder or vermicompost can also be added to increase the soil fertility.

Roots of moonlight cactus are very sensitive to oxygen deficiency. If the soil is poorly permeable to air and water, root rot can set in. It's easy to judge permeability: when watering, water should pass through the medium quickly, rather than stop at the soil surface and slowly seep down. Repot and loosen the soil every year to ensure the air permeability of the soil.

Propagation

Planting

Harvest

In addition to the seeding mentioned above, main propagation methods include division and grafting. To divide, cut off the tip or lateral branches of the stem with a knife and plant it in soil. After a period of time, many small shoots will grow up near the cut. When a shoot grows to proper size, it can be cut off and transplanted to form a new plant.

To graft, select a suitable rootstock. Cut the tip of the rootstock, such as the stem of pitahaya (Hylocereus undatus), and then put moonlight cactus, with its roots removed, in the center of the rootstock and fix it with a rope. After 1-2 weeks, the two parts grow together and the rope can be removed.

If you want to get more plants, you can propagate them as follows.

The active growing season during the spring and summer is the best time to propagate Moonlight cactus. During this period, the plants are generating a lot of energy for new growth and should have plenty of stems that can be used for propagation. They can also recover from having cuttings taken during this season than during the slower autumn and winter seasons.

The following are what you need to prepare before propagation can take place.

Sharp scissors or knife
Diluted bleach solution or isopropyl alcohol to clean tools
Pot(s) or nursery tray with drainage holes
Special soil for succulents
Clear plastic bag or a humidity dome for covering cuttings
Rooting hormone (optional but recommended)
Gardening gloves

Steps:

Step 1: Prepare containers by filling them with moistened planting material leaving about half an inch of space from the top of the container.

Step 2: Choose healthy parts for propagation. Cut off healthy stem nodes; the nodes should not be new growth, as this is not easy to succeed. You need to use a clean knife to break or cut off the stem intact at the node location.

Step 3: Leave them for 1-2 weeks, as you need to wait for the cut wounds to dry before taking cuttings. Dip the bottom end of the cutting into rooting powder (if using) according to the directions.

Step 4: Insert the stems into a loose, airy substrate, keeping them tilted, each about one-third of the way into the substrate. Water thoroughly once after planting, after which you need to wait until the soil is dry 2 inches under the surface before watering again.

Step 5: Place it in a location where the cuttings can get light but no direct sunlight, as this can be too intense for cuttings. Water occasionally and do not let the Moonlight cactus dry out.

Most species will begin to produce roots in about 3 weeks, After rooting, the plant will gradually grow new leaves, at which time you can start to harden off the Moonlight cactus. Hardening off involves gradually exposing the Moonlight cactus to more sunlight so that they have time to adjust before being moved permanently outside. Hardening off should usually take about 1 to 2 weeks depending on the outdoor conditions and the type of Moonlight cactus. After this period, Moonlight cactus can be planted in containers or directly in the ground.

Sow, plant, or repot in spring or fall when the temperature is 15 to 20 ℃ . Keep air humidity high when seeding. Use plastic film to cover the soil and remove it after the seeds germinate.

Use permeable clay flowerpots for potted plants. Too large a flowerpot accumulates water easily, while too small a flowerpot limits the development of roots. Before planting, expose soil to blazing sunlight and disinfect to kill pathogens.

If planted in the garden, moonlight cactus prefers an area with full sun and loose soil. Remove all weeds and replace the soil if needed to ensure good water permeability and avoid root rot. Wear gloves or use tongs when planting to prevent your fingers from getting pricked. You can also wrap the plant in a towel to help you move it.

Most fruits of moonlight cactus are edible. Pick the fruit when they turn red. Avoid food safety issues by confirming the species with experts. Wear gloves or use scissors and other tools to harvest.

Transplanting

For best results, transplant moonlight cactus during the warm seasons (S8-S10), when it's more efficient at establishing new roots. Site selection is crucial: choose a sun-drenched location with well-draining soil. Tip: Avoid overwatering - moonlight cactus prefers drier conditions. Remember, transplanting is a crucial stage, handle with care!

More About How-Tos

Water

Every 3 weeks

The moonlight cactus prefers a relatively dry environment, mimicking its native arid habitat. Watering should be minimal, allowing the soil to dry out completely between sessions. In colder months, reduce watering to prevent root rot and maintain plant health.

Learn More

Lighting

Full sun

Moonlight cactus flourishes when bathed in abundant rays, thriving when the sun graces most of the day. It can also survive in areas where sunlit hours are somewhat limited. Insufficient light may stunt growth and excessive exposure could cause a sunburn-like effect on the plant. Its origin habitat indicates a fondness for sunny exposures.

Learn More

Temperature

15 to 35 ℃

Moonlight cactus prefers a temperature range of 68 to 100 ℉ (20 to 38 ℃) and is native to environments with warm to hot temperatures. To adjust to temperature changes during different seasons, it is important to monitor and regulate the temperature, making sure it does not drop below 50 ℉ (10 ℃) in the winter and does not exceed 104 ℉ (40 ℃) in the summer.

Learn More

Transplant

2-3 feet

Learn More

Seasonal Care Tips

Seasonal Precautions

During peak growth in spring, summer, and fall, increase water and fertilizer. Avoid sunlight exposure in the heat of the summer. Spray water around the plant to cool it down when the temperature is too high, but avoid leaving water on the stem. Avoid water accumulation in the soil. In winter, water it as little as possible or not at all, and stop fertilizer.

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

The plant and similar succulent plants resume growing in the spring after winter dormancy.

Water the plant once or twice a month when the soil begins drying out.

An application of a balanced fertilizer every two weeks helps support healthy growth.

Pruning old growth encourages blooming and branching for a fuller plant.

Spring is also the time to repot the succulent if necessary.

Pay attention to the temperature in the early spring, this plant requires warmth and sunlight to resume growing.

Cutting off a leaf and setting it in a fresh growing medium is an easy way to propagate your plant.

Succulents like this plant are actively growing in the summer.

Keep an eye on soil moisture levels. Do not allow the soil to completely dry out.

Continue fertilizing every couple of weeks with all-purpose plant food.

The plant also requires plenty of sunlight during the day to encourage blooming.

Prune back the old flowers after blooming at the end of the summer.

While your plant is actively growing, you can also remove stems for propagation. Place the stem in fresh soil and lightly water it.

While your plant is starting to enter dormancy towards the end of fall, it's still growing for much of the season.

Continue watering and fertilizing on a regular schedule, but reduce both of these routines as the season winds down and begins reaching dormancy.

Use an all-purpose fertilizer and water the plant when the soil is dry; make sure to err on the side of dry soil rather than soggy soil.

Keep making sure your plant receives enough light during this time, particularly during the morning or evening hours, which will help the plant grow well.

During the cold winter months, the plant usually goes into a dormant state.

Reduce watering your plant in the winter to give it a rest and let it lie dormant. It’s best to keep the plant dry during this season, rather than risk it being soggy.

Make sure it receives an adequate amount of sunlight, typically in the morning or evening, although it’s not as urgent during dormancy.

Since these plants don't survive in freezing outdoor temperatures, keep them in sufficiently warm rooms indoors, away from drafts or cold windows.

For the most part, you can leave these hardy plants to themselves during these colder months.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Moonlight cactus based on 10 million real cases

Scars

Any light-colored markings that appear on stems but which do not enlarge or multiply are simply scars that have healed.

Solutions: Each source of scarring requires a different approach to help your plant recover. Protect the trunk and leaves from physical damage like scrapes. If pests or disease are the cause of scarring, isolate the plant from others to avoid further spread. Some pests can be removed with organic remedies such as a soft cloth and soapy water solution or diluted isopropyl alcohol spray. Stop sunburn by moving your plant away from direct sunlight and making sure it has the water it needs. Frequent leaf or bud loss may be due to insufficient light or nutrients.

Fruit withering

Fungal infection or normal ripening can cause the fruit to dry out.

Solutions: There are a number of appropriate solutions to control fruit withering: Remove any fruit as soon as it shows any signs of infection. Do not compost. Use a fungicide prior to leaf bud and then as per manufacturers instructions throughout the season.

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Plant dried up

The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.

Solutions: The solution for a dried out plant depends on the cause, so determine the cause before selecting a treatment method. Adjust your watering: Stick your finger in the soil near the roots. If it feels bone dry or overly saturated, you need to adjust your watering frequency accordingly. Prune back dead foliage: Snip off any brown stems and leaves on the plant to make space for new growth. This encourages the roots to send up fresh stems. Move to a proper environment. This may involve decreasing or increasing sun exposure, depending on the species. Decrease fertilizer applications. If you have applied too much fertilizer, you can repot plants with fresh potting soil. Wait. If your plant has dried out as daylight is decreasing, it is entering dormancy. Decrease watering and wait until the plant resumes growth.

Low light

A lack of sunlight will cause the stems and leaves to elongate and appear lighter in color.

Solutions: Low light can only be addressed by increasing light availability, and these measures will only stop further etoliation; current distortion cannot be reversed. Move plant to a position where it receives more light. Check the requirements for specific species, as too much sunlight can cause a plant to burn. Introduce appropriate artificial lighting. Some people choose to prune the longest stems so the plant can concentrate on healthy new growth under the improved lighting.

Stem rot

Bacterial infection can cause the stems to become soft and rotten.

Solutions: If the plant is only infected a little, it can sometimes be saved. This mainly applies to houseplants that are grown in pots. Here's what to do. Remove the plant from the pot and gently shake off as much soil as possible. Using pruning tools that have been disinfected, remove any diseased foliage and roots. Be sure the new pot has good drainage holes and wash it with one part bleach and nine parts water to ensure that it is completely clean and sanitized. Dip the plant's roots in fungicide to kill off any remaining fungal spores before potting into the clean growing medium. Only water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry and never let the plant sit in water. For plants that are grown in the ground, it's best just to remove the infected plants and destroy them. Do not plant in the same spot until the soil has been allowed to dry out and has been treated with a fungicide.

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More About Moonlight Cactus

Plant Type

Succulent, Shrub

Lifespan

Perennial

Spread

7 cm

Bloom Time

Summer

Flower Color

White

Yellow

Pink

Flower Size

7 to 9 cm

Plant Height

2 m

View More Info

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Common Problems

Why is its fleshy stem thinner and thinner as it grows?

Thin stems may be caused by insufficient sunlight, insufficient water, or fertilizer deficiency. Move the pot to a brighter place, but avoid sunburn. Increase water and fertilizer.

How do I deal with root or stem rot?

Excess water often leads to root and stem rot. Avoid accumulated water in soil. Prune rotten roots and stems and transplant to a new flowerpot in a well-ventilated place. The soil should be loose and air-permeable as far as possible.

Why doesn't my moonlight cactus ever bloom?

Firstly, it may not be time for the plant to bloom. Time from seedling to blooming can range between 2-20 years or longer. Secondly, the plant may need more sunlight, temperature or fertilizer. Increase the exposure to sunlight and fertilizer appropriately, supplement the fertilizer with phosphorus and potassium, or purchase special fertilizer for promoting blooming of moonlight cactus.

Why does moonlight cactus turn yellow?

Moonlight cactus turns yellow due to overwatering, insufficient sunlight, or pests. Moonlight cactus does not require much water, and excess water leads to root anoxia and root rot. Generally, it does not need to be watered often. Water it only when the soil is completely dry. Remember to drain the water in the flowerpot tray. Sunlight can be increased, but avoid direct exposure to blazing sunlight to prevent sunburn. Remove a small amount of pests with alcohol. For large infestations, spray pesticide.

Plants with Same Care Needs

Pokeweed

Although its berries look juicy and tempting, the fruits and the root of pokeweed are toxic and should not be eaten. Pokeweed is considered a pest species by farmers but is nevertheless often grown as an ornamental plant. Its berries can be made into pokeberry ink as well.

Bloom Time

Summer

Horseweed

Horseweed is a North American herbaceous annual plant with a hairy stem, numerous pointed leaves, and waxy inflorescence. It has been naturalized in Eurasia and Australia, where it is a common weed in urban and agricultural regions. Horseweed can be used in a survival situation to start a friction fire.

Bloom Time

Summer

Plumed cockscomb

The plumed cockscomb is a bright plant with recognizable red, pink, or purple flowers. It grows best in warm, tropical environments. Occasionally, plumed cockscomb is used as an ingredient in soap. In China and India, however, the plant is considered a pesky weed that reduces biodiversity.

Bloom Time

Summer

Elder

Elder is a malodorous shrub whose berries nevertheless act as an important food source for birds. To humans, except for its flowers and ripen fruits, other parts are poisonous. Ripen fruits can be cooked and made into jams, jellies and chutneys, while flowers could be made into syrups, but it is recommended to be guided by a professional before picking.

Bloom Time

Summer

Lambsquarters

Lambsquarters has many other names, including pigweed, goosefoot, and bacon weed. This plant seems to appear out of nowhere and is considered by many to be a pesky weed. However, the greens of this plant are edible, can be prepared similar to spinach, and are packed with nutrients.

Bloom Time

Summer

Cucumber

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is a creeping vine native to South Asia. It has a long history of cultivation - mentions of its use are found in various ancient scripts, including the Bible, Epic of Gilgamesh and Pliny the Elder's "Natural History". Today, cucumber is one of the most widely cultivated vegetable species in the world.

Bloom Time

Summer

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How to Care for Moonlight Cactus

Symbolism

Maternal love or warmth

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Basic Care Guide

Water

Tap water contains a lot of calcium, magnesium, and other mineral salts. Long-term use tends to cause soil compaction. Avoid splashing water on its stem when watering to prevent rotting.

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What should I do if I water my Moonlight cactus too much or too little?

Underwatered Moonlight cactus

Overwatered Moonlight cactus

How often should I water my Moonlight cactus?

What should I consider when watering my Moonlight cactus?

There are several environmental conditions that will affect how your Moonlight cactus needs to be watered, including the container size, soil type, temperature, and humidity.

Outdoor Planting

How to water Moonlight cactus?

Fertilizer

Why do I need to fertilize my Moonlight cactus?

When is the best time to fertilize my Moonlight cactus?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Moonlight cactus?

What type of fertilizer does my Moonlight cactus need?

How do I fertilize my Moonlight cactus?

What happens if I fertilize my Moonlight cactus too much?

Sunlight

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How much sunlight does Moonlight cactus need to grow?

What type of sunlight does Moonlight cactus need?

Should I protect Moonlight cactus from sun exposure?

What will happen if Moonlight cactus doesn't get enough sunlight?

What will happen if Moonlight cactus gets too much sunlight?

Does Moonlight cactus need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Moonlight cactus?

Pruning

Moonlight cactus does not require much pruning. Remove withered flowers and branches so the plant uses nutrients on healthy growth.

Advanced Care Guide

Temperature

What's the ideal temperature for your Moonlight cactus?

How should I adjust the temperature for my Moonlight cactus during different growing phases?

How can I keep my Moonlight cactus warm in cold seasons?

What happens to my Moonlight cactus when the temperature is too high or too low?

How should I adjust the temperature for my Moonlight cactus in different seasons?

How can I keep my Moonlight cactus warm without a heating pad?

How can I protect my Moonlight cactus from temperature damage?

What are the tips and precautions for keeping my Moonlight cactus at the right temperature?

Soil

Propagation

Planting

Harvest

If you want to get more plants, you can propagate them as follows.

The following are what you need to prepare before propagation can take place.

Sharp scissors or knife
Diluted bleach solution or isopropyl alcohol to clean tools
Pot(s) or nursery tray with drainage holes
Special soil for succulents
Clear plastic bag or a humidity dome for covering cuttings
Rooting hormone (optional but recommended)
Gardening gloves

Steps:

Step 1: Prepare containers by filling them with moistened planting material leaving about half an inch of space from the top of the container.

Step 3: Leave them for 1-2 weeks, as you need to wait for the cut wounds to dry before taking cuttings. Dip the bottom end of the cutting into rooting powder (if using) according to the directions.

Step 5: Place it in a location where the cuttings can get light but no direct sunlight, as this can be too intense for cuttings. Water occasionally and do not let the Moonlight cactus dry out.

Sow, plant, or repot in spring or fall when the temperature is 15 to 20 ℃ . Keep air humidity high when seeding. Use plastic film to cover the soil and remove it after the seeds germinate.

Most fruits of moonlight cactus are edible. Pick the fruit when they turn red. Avoid food safety issues by confirming the species with experts. Wear gloves or use scissors and other tools to harvest.

Transplanting

More About How-Tos

Seasonal Care Tips

Seasonal Precautions

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

The plant and similar succulent plants resume growing in the spring after winter dormancy.

Water the plant once or twice a month when the soil begins drying out.

An application of a balanced fertilizer every two weeks helps support healthy growth.

Pruning old growth encourages blooming and branching for a fuller plant.

Spring is also the time to repot the succulent if necessary.

Pay attention to the temperature in the early spring, this plant requires warmth and sunlight to resume growing.

Cutting off a leaf and setting it in a fresh growing medium is an easy way to propagate your plant.

Succulents like this plant are actively growing in the summer.

Keep an eye on soil moisture levels. Do not allow the soil to completely dry out.

Continue fertilizing every couple of weeks with all-purpose plant food.

The plant also requires plenty of sunlight during the day to encourage blooming.

Prune back the old flowers after blooming at the end of the summer.

While your plant is actively growing, you can also remove stems for propagation. Place the stem in fresh soil and lightly water it.

While your plant is starting to enter dormancy towards the end of fall, it's still growing for much of the season.

Continue watering and fertilizing on a regular schedule, but reduce both of these routines as the season winds down and begins reaching dormancy.

Use an all-purpose fertilizer and water the plant when the soil is dry; make sure to err on the side of dry soil rather than soggy soil.

Keep making sure your plant receives enough light during this time, particularly during the morning or evening hours, which will help the plant grow well.

During the cold winter months, the plant usually goes into a dormant state.

Reduce watering your plant in the winter to give it a rest and let it lie dormant. It’s best to keep the plant dry during this season, rather than risk it being soggy.

Make sure it receives an adequate amount of sunlight, typically in the morning or evening, although it’s not as urgent during dormancy.

Since these plants don't survive in freezing outdoor temperatures, keep them in sufficiently warm rooms indoors, away from drafts or cold windows.

For the most part, you can leave these hardy plants to themselves during these colder months.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Moonlight cactus based on 10 million real cases

Scars

Any light-colored markings that appear on stems but which do not enlarge or multiply are simply scars that have healed.

Learn More

Fruit withering

Fungal infection or normal ripening can cause the fruit to dry out.

Learn More

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Learn More

Plant dried up

The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.

Learn More

Low light

A lack of sunlight will cause the stems and leaves to elongate and appear lighter in color.

Learn More

Stem rot

Bacterial infection can cause the stems to become soft and rotten.

Learn More

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

More About Moonlight Cactus

Plant Type

Succulent, Shrub

Lifespan

Perennial

Spread

7 cm

Bloom Time

Summer

Flower Color

White

Yellow

Pink

Flower Size

7 to 9 cm

Plant Height

2 m

View More Info

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Common Problems

Why is its fleshy stem thinner and thinner as it grows?

Thin stems may be caused by insufficient sunlight, insufficient water, or fertilizer deficiency. Move the pot to a brighter place, but avoid sunburn. Increase water and fertilizer.

How do I deal with root or stem rot?

Why doesn't my moonlight cactus ever bloom?

Why does moonlight cactus turn yellow?

Plants with Same Care Needs

Indoor

Requirements

Full sun

Ideal

Above 6 hours sunlight

Partial sun

Tolerance

About 3-6 hours sunlight

Watch how sunlight gracefully moves through your garden, and choose spots that provide the perfect balance of light and shade for your plants, ensuring their happiness.

Essentials

Preferred

Tolerable

Unsuitable

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Download the App

Artificial lighting

Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.

Important Symptoms

Insufficient light

Moonlight cactus is a beloved choice for indoor gardening, and they require strong light to thrive. However, when placed in rooms with suboptimal lighting, they may develop symptoms of light deficiency.

(Symptom details and solutions)

Leggy or sparse growth

The spaces between leaves or stems of your moonlight cactus may become longer, resulting in a thin and stretched-out appearance. This can make the plant look sparse and weak, and it may easily break or lean due to its own weight.

Slower or no new growth

Moonlight cactus enters a survival mode when light conditions are poor, which leads to a halt in leaf production. As a result, the plant's growth becomes delayed or stops altogether.

Solutions

1. To ensure optimal growth, gradually move plants to a sunnier location each week, until they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use a south-facing window and keep curtains open during the day for maximum sunlight exposure and nutrient accumulation.2. To provide additional light for your plant, consider using artificial light if it's large or not easily movable. Keep a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or invest in professional plant grow lights for ample light.

Excessive light

Moonlight cactus require strong light to thrive, and some are remarkably resilient to sun exposure, rarely suffering from sunburn.

(Symptom details and solutions)

Chlorosis

Chlorosis is a condition where the plant's leaves lose their green color and turn yellow. This is due to the breakdown of chlorophyll from excessive sunlight, which negatively affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize.

Sunscald

Sunscald occurs when the plant's leaves or stems are damaged by intense sunlight exposure. It appears as pale, bleached, or necrotic areas on the plant tissue and can reduce the plant's overall health.

Leaf Curling

Leaf curling is a symptom where leaves curl or twist under extreme sunlight conditions. This is a defense mechanism used by the plant to reduce its surface area exposed to sunlight, minimizing water loss and damage.

Wilting

Wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure and its leaves and stems begin to droop. Overexposure to sunlight can cause wilting by increasing the plant's water loss through transpiration, making it difficult for the plant to maintain adequate hydration.

Leaf Scorching

Leaf scorching is a symptom characterized by the appearance of brown, dry, and crispy edges or patches on leaves due to excessive sunlight. This can lead to a reduction in photosynthetic capacity and overall plant health.

Solutions

1. Move your plant to the optimal position where it can receive abundant sunlight but also have some shade. An east-facing window is an ideal choice as the morning sunlight is gentler. This way, your plant can enjoy ample sunlight while reducing the risk of sunburn.2. It is recommended to trim off any completely dehydrated or withered parts of the plant.

Discover care info about seasonal tips, plant diseases, and more?

Indoor

Requirements

Ideal

Tolerable

Unsuitable

Just like people, each plant has its own preferences. Learn about your plants' temperature needs and create a comforting environment for them to flourish. As you care for your plants, your bond with them will deepen. Trust your intuition as you learn about their temperature needs, celebrating the journey you share. Lovingly monitor the temperature around your plants and adjust their environment as needed. A thermometer can be your ally in this heartfelt endeavor. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you explore your plants' temperature needs. Cherish your successes, learn from challenges, and nurture your garden with love, creating a haven that reflects the warmth of your care.

Essentials

Regional wintering strategies

Moonlight cactus is a heat-loving plant that gradually stops growing and enters a dormant state during the winter. When the outdoor temperature drops below {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}, it should be moved indoors for cultivation. Choose a location near a south-facing window to provide as much sunlight as possible. If there is insufficient natural light, supplemental lighting can be used. When the temperature falls below {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}, the plant's growth slows down, and watering should be reduced or stopped to prevent root rot. For Moonlight cactus grown outdoors, watering should be completely halted during low temperatures. If feasible, you can set up a temporary greenhouse for insulation or use materials such as plastic film or fabric to wrap the plant during cold temperatures.

Important Symptoms

Low Temperature

Moonlight cactus thrives in high temperatures and is not tolerant of low temperatures. It grows best when the temperature is above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}. During winter, it should be kept above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. When the temperature falls below {Limit_growth_temperature}, the plant may become weak, wilt, and be prone to root rot. In cases of mild frost damage, there may not be any initial symptoms, but after a week, the plant will gradually wither.

Solutions

Trim off the frostbitten areas, paying attention to whether the roots have rotted. If the roots have rotted, they need to be cut off, and the plant can be propagated through cuttings. Immediately move indoors to a warm environment and place the plant near a south-facing window to ensure ample sunlight. If there is insufficient light, you can use supplemental lighting.

High Temperature

During summer, Moonlight cactus should be kept below {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. When the temperature exceeds {Tolerable_growing_temperature_max}, the plant's growth will cease, it will experience water loss, wilting, and becomes more susceptible to sunburn.

Solutions

Remove the sunburned and rotten parts. Shield the plant from afternoon sunlight until it recovers and starts growing again. For plants with root rot, stop watering until new roots begin to emerge.

Discover care info about seasonal tips, plant diseases, and more?

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