Texas Cactus Floodlight Sunburn: Orientation Matters

Diagnosis Needed

12-foot cactus moved from San Diego to North Texas. Greenhouse built, floodlights for heat. After moving light, arm shows light brown patch.

Two Possibilities

1. Sunburn: Floodlight intense on previously shaded side.
2. Frost damage: Delayed from earlier freeze.

Critical Question

Is the San Diego south side facing south in Texas? If not, sunburn is certain. Cacti develop thick skin only on sun-exposed side.

Action

• Email photo to gregandkat@msn.com.
• Shade affected side immediately (30% cloth).
• Re-orient if possible (mark south, rotate).

Orientation at planting/moving is life-or-death for columnar cacti.