Cactus/Cactus
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Question
My brothers moon cactus is dying in the stem so like can i cut off the stem and
)
replant the top or will it stop growing if i do that?
Dear Haley,
Actually, your brother's cactus is dead. A moon cactus is a grafted cactus. For this particular type of grafted cactus the top plant can't survive without the bottom plant as it don't have any chlorophyll which it needs to survive on it's own. So, as far as I can see, the top plant is already dying, bottom dead.
These plants tend not to live for very long anyway, but it does look like your's has been overwatered and the stem rotted.
If your brother is particularly fond of this plant I'd just buy a new one, put it in bright light but not direct sunlight and only water it when the soil is totally dry.
There are other grafted cactus that are interesting and sturdier as both sections have chlorophyll and can live for a long time with care.
Hope this helps,
maureen
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Maureen
Expertise
I can answer questions regarding the care and propagation of cactus and succulents and would actually group these together as folks often mistake one for the other and often their care is quite different. I also have a cold hardy cactus and succulent garden that has been quite successful. The subject in regard to classification of type is enormous and I wouldn't be able to answer all questions by any means. It is really IMPORTANT TO INCLUDE A PHOTO if at all possible and LET ME KNOW WHERE YOU ARE FROM, especially in terms of climate.
Experience
I have learned by reading books, by trial and error and by consulting with folks with much more knowledge. I have primarily grown C&S for the last 20 years.
Organizations
Cactus and Succulent Society of Massachusetts.
Education/Credentials
No formal training. See experience.
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