A detailed guide to crab claw cactus (Schlumbergera) cuttings: master these steps for a high survival rate
Crab claw cactus (Schlumbergera) is a succulent plant in the cactus family with high ornamental value, and it is extremely common in major parks and gardens across our country. At present, the production area of crab claw cactus in our country is still very large, and it is also a major potted plant in winter in our country, welcomed by many people. So when growing crab claw cactus, how should you take cuttings? Below, the editor brings you the cutting method for crab claw cactus. Let's take a look!
1. Cutting time
Because crab claw cactus is a winter plant, its cold tolerance is still relatively strong. Therefore, crab claw cactus cuttings can be taken in spring and autumn. If taking cuttings in spring, then April to May is more suitable. And if in autumn, then cuttings can begin from September. Then before taking cuttings, we should choose the cutting soil well; the soil should mainly be loose, permeable sandy loam with normal drainage and irrigation. This ensures the survival rate of crab claw cactus cuttings and avoids the cuttings dying due to soil that is too sticky and heavy.
2. Selection of cuttings
Crab claw cactus cuttings should mainly be mature stem segments. You can choose robust stem segments from the plant, or the stem segments cut off when pruning crab claw cactus can all be used for cuttings. After cutting off the branches, trim off the broken and improperly shaped parts. Then make a slanted cut at the base of the branch and place it in a ventilated, shady place to dry for about two days; once the cut has dried, it can be used for cuttings. If you want to increase the rooting speed of the cuttings, then you can apply an appropriate amount of rooting agent to the base. Finally, when cutting crab claw cactus, be careful to disinfect the pruning tools.
3. Cutting method
The cutting method for crab claw cactus is actually very simple. After preparing the cutting soil, break up the soil finely and level it. And you can add an appropriate amount of water to the soil to keep it slightly moist, then directly insert the cuttings coated with rooting agent into the soil. After the cuttings are inserted, keep the depth at about 1/3 of the branch length. After the branches are inserted, keep them upright, press the soil around the cuttings firmly, and water once after all cuttings are inserted. Then maintain a ventilated, shady environment and wait for the cuttings to root.
4. Management after cutting
After taking crab claw cactus cuttings, management work must be done well. First, pay attention to shading, and water and mist appropriately to maintain humidity. Under normal circumstances, crab claw cactus will root about half a month after cutting. And if cuttings are taken in late autumn, then because the temperature is lower and the resistance of the cuttings is weaker, a film should be properly covered to prevent the cuttings from freezing damage. You should wait until the branches have rooted before removing the film, and give appropriate light to promote the growth of the cuttings and improve the survival rate.
The above is a brief introduction to the cutting method for crab claw cactus. That is all for today's introduction. This article is for reference only, and I hope it can help everyone!