How to Propagate Epiphyllum oxypetalum? A Detailed Guide to the Latest Propagation Methods
Because Epiphyllum oxypetalum always blooms at midnight, people call it the “Beauty Under the Moon.” A fleeting epiphyllum bloom lasts only a moment, yet that instant represents eternity. Its flowers are as white as jade and brimming with delicate fragrance, beautiful yet elegant, and thus beloved by people around the world. Now let us take a look at how to propagate Epiphyllum oxypetalum!
Propagating Epiphyllum oxypetalum by Seed
Seed propagation of Epiphyllum oxypetalum is commonly used in hybrid breeding, and it takes 4-5 years from sowing to flowering.
Propagating Epiphyllum oxypetalum by Grafting
1. Grafting time: Epiphyllum oxypetalum has strong regenerative ability, so grafting can be done at any time except in severe winter, but spring and autumn are best.
2. Grafting method
① On an Epiphyllum oxypetalum plant, select several stem segments of the current year with good growth. Disinfect the base of the stem segments with an alcohol cotton ball, then use a sterilized knife to cut the cortex and the thicker fleshy part on both sides of the stem segment into a tongue shape.
② Select a normally growing cactus ball with a diameter of 60-90 mm as the rootstock. The larger the cactus ball, the better, as it will look more attractive once formed. Disinfect the top of the ball with alcohol and then cut away several patches of cortex. In the middle part where the cortex has been removed, use a sterilized small knife to insert a small slit downward; the width and depth of the cut should be just right for inserting the scion. Then insert the stem segment through the slit into the graft opening of the cactus ball.
③ Insert a spine from the cactus ball itself into the lower part of the cortex of the grafted bud to secure it.
3. Aftercare management: The cactus ball is a succulent plant and tends to rot when overwatered, so water it sparingly. After grafting Epiphyllum oxypetalum, place it in a cool, ventilated spot and protect it from rain. After one week, if the grafted bud shows no abnormality, the graft has taken. After half a month, it can be placed under scattered light and given normal care. Before the wound has healed, do not spray water on the ball to prevent rot. At the same time, prevent direct sunlight during hot seasons.
Propagating Epiphyllum oxypetalum by Cuttings
1. Cutting time: May to June is most suitable. With greenhouse conditions, it can be done in all four seasons. Cuttings grow roots in about 20-30 days.
2. Cutting method
① Cutting selection: Choose slightly older, two-year-old leaf-like branches, preferably robust and thick ones. Cuttings that are too tender tend to rot or shrivel after planting and should not be used. Cut the cuttings from the mother branch, use a sharp knife to trim them into sections 10-15 cm long, and place them in a cool, ventilated spot for half a day to a full day, until the cut surface has dried and formed a thin film, before planting.
② Cutting soil: Use a mix of 7 parts garden soil and 3 parts rice husk ash, or plain sand soil is also acceptable. The key is that it drains well and is loose, making it easy for roots to develop. The soil should first be dried in strong sunlight to prevent moss or mold from developing and causing rot.
③ Cutting container: Cuttings can be taken in a sand bed or in a pot. It is best to use a shallow pot (tower pot). First place broken tile pieces at the bottom of the pot, then add growing medium until the pot is 80% full. The cutting depth should be about 1/3 of the cutting. After planting, press the base slightly firm, then place it in a cool spot indoors and avoid moving it around.
④ Aftercare management: If placed in a greenhouse, do not allow direct sunlight, so as to avoid shriveling the cuttings and affecting root germination. Watering is necessary after planting, and after watering, straighten any tilted branches. If high temperatures cause the cuttings to wilt, spray clean water with a fine sprayer. The soil should be kept slightly moist.