By Mike Stiles, Master Gardener
Though most cacti are native to the desert southwest,
Most nurseries and garden centers have a small collection of cacti. An Internet search will yield other sources
of mail order plants, sometimes with a very large selection. Another source of cacti is the trading of
cuttings with other cactus gardeners.
Cacti respond very well to propagation by cuttings. Be sure, though, when taking a cutting that
the overall appearance of the parent plant is not harmed. Use a sharp knife or saw and remove a section
at the joint. Multiple barrel-type cacti
should be cut at ground level.
Allow the cuttings to dry in a shady spot for at least a week, until the cut
end is dry and callused. This will help
prevent rotting. When the cutting is
ready, plant it shallowly. Tall
specimens may need to be staked. Cacti
should be grown in well-drained soil, either in the garden or in pots. Potted cacti may be an advantage where winter
temperatures drop far below freezing, and the pots can be brought indoors.
Water very sparingly for the first few weeks until you are certain that roots
are established. Until roots have
formed, excess water will just rot the cutting, and rot is the primary cause of
cactus loss.
In the wild, cacti receive most of their rainfall, and do most of their
growing, in the summer monsoon season.
Therefore, summer water is essential to the plants, but allows the soil
to dry between waterings. A diluted,
complete fertilizer can be used if desired in the water. Along the
Remember, cacti can be very mean when handled.
Many types just laugh at leather gloves.
A folded strip of newspaper, wrapped around the cutting or plant, and
squeezed together to hold the cutting tightly is an excellent way to move the
plant into position when planting.