From our perspective, the most immediate and critical sign of distress is the state of our stem. Our specialized tissue, designed to swell with water during rare rains, becomes overwhelmed. The cells absorb so much water that they literally burst. This manifests as a soft, mushy texture to the touch, much like a rotten fruit. You will notice a significant color change; our normally vibrant green skin may turn a pale yellow, translucent, or even a blackish-brown, starting at the base where water pools. This is not a simple blemish; it is a sign of advanced cellular collapse and the onset of rot.
It seems counterintuitive that we would wilt from too much water, but the explanation lies beneath the soil. Our roots, which require periods of dryness to breathe, suffocate and die in perpetually soggy conditions. Once the root system is compromised or rots away, it can no longer transport water or nutrients to our upper parts. Therefore, even though the soil is wet, our body above ground begins to shrivel, wilt, and may eventually collapse entirely. We lose our structural integrity because the very foundation that supports and feeds us has been destroyed.
For those of us, like Christmas cacti, that have leaves or stem segments, the constant waterlogged state triggers an emergency response. We must conserve energy and attempt to reduce the burden on our failing root system. To do this, we will actively drop healthy, plump leaves and pads. They may fall off at the slightest touch. Furthermore, the small, fuzzy bumps on our surface called areoles—from which our spines, flowers, and new growth emerge—may become soft, discolored, or moldy. This indicates that the fungal pathogens thriving in the wet environment are attacking our most vital growth points.
The primary crisis occurs at our root level. Our roots are not just for absorption; they also need oxygen from the air pockets in the soil. Constant saturation fills these pockets with water, drowning us. The roots begin to die and decay, turning dark brown or black and becoming slimy and foul-smelling. This root rot is a death sentence if unchecked, as it severs our connection to the soil and prevents us from taking up any water or sustenance, ultimately leading to the failure of our entire system.
When we are fighting for survival against excess moisture, all non-essential functions cease. Our energy is diverted from growth and reproduction to simply trying to withstand the rot and fungal attacks. You will notice a complete halt in new growth. Furthermore, the process of flowering requires immense energy and precise environmental cues. The stress of being waterlogged completely disrupts this cycle. We will not produce buds or flowers, as our sole focus is on basic survival, not procreation.
