Growing Epiphytic Cacti From Cuttings

Epiphytic cacti root very easily from cuttings, particularly if taken during the summer months and with care the success rate should be 100%.  Cuttings are best left for approximately seven days from cutting off the parent stock plant before placing in a gritty open compost for rooting. 

The use of rooting powder is advisable as this helps to prevent basal rot of the cutting, though they will root perfectly well without this.  Place approximately one third of the bottom segment in the compost and keep in a warm, fairly humid shade spot until rooted.  This should take six to eight weeks.  Water carefully.  The cuttings will pick up noticeably when rooting begins and growth should follow shortly afterwards.  Repot in the spring.

John Horobin

23 November 2000