A detailed guide to cactus (ball cactus) cutting propagation: learn how to easily propagate new plants

The ball cactus is a type of cactus. This plant is very suitable for cutting propagation, with an extremely high survival rate, but rot must be prevented. After cuttings are taken, new plants will grow again after a period of time, which is a commonly used method for production and propagation. So how should ball cacti be propagated by cuttings, and how is it done? What details need attention? What is the key point that determines survival? Now we can take a look.

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 it, then directly cut off the small balls, disinfect the wounds, let the wounds dry in a cool place, and insert them into the nutrient soil in the prepared flower pot. The insertion depth is about 2 cm, not too shallow, as 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, let them dry, and then insert them separately for propagation.

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 likely to be airtight and cause rot. Plastic pots are more economical and can be used, but ventilation holes must be prepared at the bottom. Use sandy loam soil, or fully humus soil from under forest on hillsides. Spray with carbendazim at an appropriate concentration for disinfection. A little rooting powder can be used.

3. Cutting care

After cutting, spray to maintain moisture, but the soil must not be too wet. After rooting begins, spray water on the soil, keep the temperature warm, and place it indoors or on a windowsill with a little sunlight for better 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 bit 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 propagated with a little root attached, making 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 nutrient-rich soil makes rooting faster. Do not water or fertilize cuttings, as they are prone to rot. Spraying a little water mist is enough, as long as it stays slightly moist.

Propagating ball cacti by cuttings is relatively simple. Doing all this is to increase the survival rate and ensure good growth. Sometimes, when growing just a small amount for oneself, people simply take cuttings casually.