A grafted specimen, the moon cactus is almost always grown in a pot rather than as a garden specimen. Gymnocalycium mihanovichii is the plant with the striking red, orange, or yellow top (the scion). Any number of species can make up the lower green cactus host section, but Hylocereus cactus is the most common. When the pieces are put together, it is known as a moon cactus. To detach the scion and graft it onto a new rootstock cactus, nevertheless, is not a difficult process. Planting is best done in the spring or summer, when quicker development is preferred.
Care Guide
Light
The ball tops don’t like direct sunshine and can tolerate more shadow than many cactus. The stock green cacti at the bottom, on the other hand, frequently enjoy light. The optimal conditions for these cacti are areas with brilliant indirect light and only a few hours of morning sunlight. The colors will fade if there is too much direct sunlight.
Soil
The optimal cactus mix has a low pH and is rich and quick-draining. Verify that the soil satisfies the requirements of the host cactus at the bottom.
Water
Between watering, let the soil mixture almost completely dry up before giving it a good soak. Since leaving the plant in water for an extended period of time might cause root rot, good drainage is crucial. The plant can require frequent watering during the summer, especially if it has been relocated outside. Small-potted plants just require weekly watering. Although the plant doesn’t need to be regularly misted in the winter, watering is not necessary.
Temperature and Humidity
It’s possible that the ideal circumstances for the upper scion part and the rootstock are different. The ideal temperature range during the winter is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Borderline temperatures have the potential to kill the upper section while preserving the rootstock. This plant prefers low humidity levels, like the majority of cactus.
Fertilizer
Your moon cactus plant does not require regular fertilization, but from April to September while it is in bloom, you should give it a monthly dosage of cactus fertilizer. During the dry winter months, stop feeding.
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