The Monkey Tail Cactus, scientifically known as Hildewintera colademononis, is recognized for its long, cascading stems covered in soft, white, hair-like spines. Like many succulents, its stems are designed to store water, making it highly tolerant of drought conditions. While the plant may appear to require little attention, mastering its watering regimen is the most important factor for its long-term survival and health.
Determining Watering Frequency
The frequency with which you water a Monkey Tail Cactus is not a fixed schedule but depends on the condition of the soil and the plant’s seasonal life cycle. The fundamental rule is to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent the roots from remaining in saturated conditions. This approach mimics the plant’s natural arid habitat, where rainfall is heavy but infrequent.
During the active growth period of spring and summer, the plant requires more moisture to fuel its growth. You should check the soil every week, waiting until the top two to three inches are dry before reapplying water. Depending on your environment’s temperature and light intensity, this might translate to watering approximately every 7 to 14 days.
The plant enters a period of dormancy during the cooler, darker months of fall and winter, significantly slowing its metabolic processes. Water requirements drop drastically during this resting phase, and excess moisture becomes a major threat. Reduce watering to a minimum, often only once every three to six weeks, providing enough moisture to prevent the stems from shriveling.
Proper Watering Technique
Regardless of the season, the methodology for applying water should follow the “soak and dry” method. This technique ensures that the entire root system is properly hydrated. Apply water slowly and thoroughly over the surface of the soil.
Continue watering until you see liquid draining freely from the pot’s drainage holes. This complete saturation ensures that all parts of the root ball have accessed the moisture. Using room-temperature or lukewarm water is preferred, as cold tap water can shock the plant’s sensitive root system.
After the initial drainage, immediately empty the collection saucer or decorative pot cover. Allowing the cactus to sit in standing water will lead to root suffocation and decay. The goal is to drench the soil completely and then allow excess water to escape rapidly, creating the necessary dry environment before the next watering.
Recognizing Watering Problems
The most common cause of decline in this species is overwatering, which leads to root rot. A monkey tail cactus suffering from this fungal infection will show stems that appear soft, mushy, or translucent, especially near the base where they meet the soil. The stems may also turn a yellow or black color and develop a foul odor as the tissue breaks down.
If you observe these symptoms, stop watering immediately and allow the soil to dry out completely. In severe cases, the plant may need to be repotted into fresh, dry soil after any visibly rotted roots are trimmed away. The soft, hair-covered stems make it easy to miss these signs until the damage is extensive.
An underwatered Monkey Tail Cactus will display stems that look shriveled, deflated, or wrinkled, appearing much thinner than a healthy, plump stem. The soil itself may look extremely dry and brittle, often pulling away from the edges of the container. Prolonged dehydration will stunt growth and can eventually lead to the loss of sections.
If the plant is dehydrated, correct the issue by performing a thorough “soak and dry” watering. If the soil is so dry that it has become hydrophobic and repels water, you may need to soak the entire pot in a basin of water for a short time until the soil is rehydrated. Once the stems regain their plump appearance, resume the regular, seasonal watering schedule.