Are you a cactus enthusiast looking to expand your collection? Or perhaps you've received a cactus cutting as a gift and want to ensure its successful growth? In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps to plant a cactus cutting so it can root and thrive.
What is a cactus cutting?
Before we dive into the planting process, let's understand what a cactus cutting is. A cactus cutting is a piece of a mature cactus that is removed and used to propagate a new plant. It typically consists of a stem segment or a pad with no roots. By planting a cactus cutting, you can create a new cactus plant that is genetically identical to the parent plant, its what collectors refer to as a clone.
Step 1: Prepare the materials
First, gather the necessary materials for planting your cactus cutting. You will need a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears, a well-draining potting mix, a small pot with drainage holes, and a clean, dry container for the potting mix.
Step 2: Prepare the cutting
Using a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears, make a clean cut just below a node or joint on the cactus cutting. This is where the roots will eventually emerge. Allow the cutting to dry and callous over for a few days to prevent rotting. Check out last weeks blog for more info on properly drying a cactus cutting.
Step 3: Plant the cutting
Fill the small pot with the well-draining potting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Make a small hole in the center of the potting mix using your finger or a pencil. Gently place the cactus cutting into the hole, ensuring that the calloused end is in contact with the potting mix.
Step 4: Provide the right conditions
Place the potted cutting in a bright location with indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can cause sunburn. (Sunburn sucks no matter who you are!) Cacti prefer warm temperatures, so aim for a temperature range of 70-90°F (21-32°C). Depending on the temperature your cutting may not throw any roots until it warms up in spring/summer. Water the cutting very sparingly as there aren't any roots to drink up that water anyway. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Step 5: Monitor and care for the cutting
Keep a close eye on your cactus cutting as it establishes roots. It may take several weeks or even months for roots to develop. During this time, avoid disturbing the cutting or overwatering it. You'll know your cut has rooted when you gently push against it and it resists you. Once the cutting has rooted, you can gradually increase the amount of water and expose it to more sunlight.
By following these steps, you can increase the chances of your cactus cutting successfully rooting and thriving. But honestly, I have seen cactus cuttings get tossed into a random section of a garden without any TLC and BOOM a healthy new plant appears in a few months anyway.
Cacti have a way of thriving with or without you so follow their lead, and you'll do just fine.