How to grow epiphyllum in pots? A detailed guide to cultivation methods

Epiphyllum, also known as the "Beauty Under the Moon," is a perennial evergreen succulent plant of the genus Epiphyllum in the cactus family. It originated in the tropical forests of Mexico and Central and South America. Its old branches are flat, and its young branches are three-angled and club-shaped. Its flowering period is from June to October. The flowers are white, large and long, and full of fragrance. Most flowers open in the evening and wither after several hours, hence the saying "a fleeting epiphyllum appearance." It is commonly cultivated in homes across both northern and southern China.

Propagation of epiphyllum

Propagate by cuttings using flat branches. Cuttings can be taken in a greenhouse all year round, but April to May is the best time. For the cuttings, choose slightly older, robust flat branches from the previous year (ones that are too tender rot easily), cut them into sections 10 cm to 15 cm long, and let them dry for 2 to 3 days. After the cut surface has dried and sealed, insert them into a rooting medium or sand, with the insertion depth about 1/3 of the cutting (not too deep). If the soil is moist, do not water for the time being, and afterward keep the soil slightly moist and on the dry side. Roots begin to form in about 20 days. When the roots grow to 4 cm to 5 cm, the plant can be potted. With proper care, even 2-year-old seedlings can bloom.

Choosing potting soil

Epiphyllum prefers slightly acidic sandy soil rich in humus, well-drained, loose, and fertile. The usual potting soil mixing ratio is: leaf mold : garden soil : sand = 4:4:2. After mixing the soil, it is best to sterilize it by exposing it to the sun. When planting, place a layer of broken tiles or brick pieces at the bottom of the pot to improve aeration and drainage.

Watering at the right time

Epiphyllum prefers moist soil and relatively high air humidity, and is afraid of waterlogging. When temperatures are lower in late autumn, winter, and early spring, epiphyllum is in a semi-dormant state, so watering should be strictly controlled, keeping the potting soil on the dry side; after it dries out completely, a light watering is enough. After temperatures rise in spring, epiphyllum begins to resume growth, and the amount of watering can be gradually increased to keep the soil moist. During vigorous growth, in addition to watering, water should also be sprinkled around the plant to increase air humidity, and ventilation should be strengthened.

Reasonable fertilizing

Epiphyllum relatively likes fertilizer and also has relatively high fertilizer requirements. Well-rotted organic fertilizer is best, plus a small amount of bone meal or superphosphate. Add it when preparing the soil and mix it evenly with the potting soil, with the application amount being 1/20 to 1/30 of the potting soil. After new stems grow in spring, begin topdressing. During the growth period, if the leaves turn yellow, apply a 500-fold ferrous sulfate solution once; after flower buds appear, apply a 1000-fold monopotassium phosphate once; after the flowers wither, apply an additional phosphorus and potassium fertilizer once about every 20 days. Fertilizing should stop in late autumn.

Repotting method

Young epiphyllum plants are repotted once a year, while established plants are generally repotted once every 2 to 3 years. Repotting is done in spring when the temperature is above 12°C, and can also be done in September. Stop watering before repotting so that the potting soil dries and the plant can be removed from the pot. When removing it from the pot, handle it gently to avoid bumping the plant. After removal, remove the old soil outside the roots and prune away dead roots and broken roots. After planting, place it in a semi-shaded spot and do not water for the time being. Water lightly after 2 days and keep the potting soil on the dry side.