Wondering what our "Ready Your Scion" collection means? This blog will dive into instructions on how to successfully graft cacti to speed up growth and through reading it, the context of this Lost Tag collection will make a little more sense.
What is Grafting?
Grafting is a horticultural technique that involves joining two different plants together to create a single, unified plant. In the case of cacti, grafting is commonly used to combine the desirable characteristics of different cactus species onto a single rootstock. This allows the grafted cactus to benefit from the root system of the rootstock while showcasing the unique traits of the scion, the upper part of the grafted plant.
Why Graft Cactus?
Grafting cactus offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows you to create cactus hybrids that may not occur naturally in the wild. By combining different species, you can achieve a wide range of colors, shapes, and textures in your cactus collection. Additionally, grafting can enhance the growth rate and overall health of the scion, as it benefits from the established root system of the rootstock. Oftentimes, cacti growers will select an extremely rare or valuable clone for the scion and use a healthy common clone for the rootstock.
How to Graft Cactus
Grafting cactus requires precision and patience, but with practice, anyone can master this technique. Here is a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Step 1: Selecting the Rootstock and Scion
Choose a healthy rootstock, preferably a fast-growing cactus species with a strong root system. For the scion, select a cactus cutting or seedling with the desired traits you wish to propagate.
Step 2: Preparing the Rootstock and Scion
Using a sharp, sterile knife, make a clean cut at the top of the rootstock. Repeat the same process for the scion, ensuring that the cut matches the angle of the rootstock.
Step 3: Joining the Rootstock and Scion
Place the cut surfaces of the rootstock and scion together, ensuring they fit snugly. When the stock has the scion seated on it, the vascular bundles must match up for the graft to be successful. If they are exactly the same size you can simply center them. It is important that there is no air bubble at the union point so use rubber bands or nylons to hold them in place securely.
Step 4: Caring for the Grafted Cactus
After grafting, it is crucial to provide the grafted cactus with the right conditions for successful healing. Keep the plant in a warm, well-lit area, but avoid direct sunlight.
Step 5: Monitoring and Maintenance
Monitor the grafted cactus closely for 5-7 days for any signs of infection or rejection. Remove the rubber bands or nylons once the union between the rootstock and scion is secure.
Conclusion
Grafting cactus cuttings or seedlings is a skill that requires practice and patience, but the results are truly magnificent. By combining different cactus species, you can create unique hybrids that showcase the best traits of each plant. Whether you are a cactus enthusiast or a gardening novice, grafting cactus is a rewarding technique that allows you to expand your collection and create stunning, one-of-a-kind plants.