What are the latest methods for propagating cactus (ball cactus) by cuttings?
The ball cactus is a type of cactus. This plant is very suitable for cuttings, with an extremely high survival rate, but it is necessary to prevent rot. After cutting, new plants will grow again after a period of time, and it is a commonly used method for production and propagation. So how should the ball cactus be cut, and how is it done? What details should be paid attention to? What is the key point that determines survival? Then you can take a look now.
1. Cutting method
If you do not want to cut off the ball cactus you are currently growing, you can wait until small ball cacti grow beside the ball cactus, then directly cut off the small balls, disinfect the wounds, dry the wounds in a cool place, and then insert them into the prepared nutrient soil in the flower pot. The cutting depth is about 2 cm, not too shallow; there must be enough contact surface. The flower pot soil should be disinfected before use. If you do not want the current ball cactus, you can directly cut it into small pieces, dry them, and then cut them separately.
2. Cutting preparation
Prepare a cutting knife; an unused grafting knife or utility knife will do. Do not use ceramic flower pots, as they are especially prone to poor air permeability and rot. Plastic pots are more economical and can be used, but drainage holes must be prepared at the bottom. Use sandy loam soil, or fully humus soil from under trees on hillsides. Spray a suitable concentration of carbendazim for disinfection. A little rooting powder can be used.
3. Cutting care
After cutting, spray to keep moisture, but the soil must not be too wet. After rooting begins, spray water on the soil and keep the temperature warm. It is better to place it indoors or on a windowsill with a little sunlight for care. Do not place it outside, especially during high-temperature periods. In summer, spray less water. High humidity makes rooting difficult. Spray appropriately in spring. Cuttings can also be taken in autumn. In dry periods, spray a little more water.
4. Precautions
When taking cuttings, be careful not to insert them into the soil without drying them first, as they are prone to rot or infection by pathogens and then rot. Small balls can be cut with a little root, which makes survival easier. Small balls generally need to be placed in a cool place for a few days before cutting. The cutting knife must be disinfected with alcohol. Using relatively nutritious soil makes rooting a bit faster. Do not water or fertilize after cutting, as this easily causes rot. Spraying a little water mist is enough; just keep it slightly moist.
Cutting ball cacti is relatively simple. So much content is covered in order to improve the survival rate and make them grow well. Sometimes, when growing just a small amount for oneself, people just cut them casually.