Pitaya Grafting Cactus Technique
In horticultural practice, the grafting of pitaya onto cactus has become a classic combination to enhance ornamental value. This intergeneric grafting not only strengthens the plant's resistance to adversity but also achieves the landscape effect of multi-colored flowers blooming on the same plant. Mastering scientific grafting techniques plays a decisive role in improving survival rates and cultivating high-quality plants.
Core Technology of Pitaya Grafting Cactus
Optimal Grafting Time Selection
Theoretically, the temperature range of 10-30℃ throughout the year is suitable for operation, but practice shows that the period from Qingming to Dragon Boat Festival (April to June) is ideal. At this time, the day-night temperature difference is ≤8℃, air humidity is stable at 60%-75%, and the cambium cell division is active, which can increase the healing speed of the grafting interface by more than 40%.
Standardized Treatment of Rootstock
Select pitaya branches with a diameter of 2-3cm, which must meet the following conditions: ① no mechanical damage on the surface, ② pith proportion <30%, ③ moderate degree of lignification. Use an arc-shaped knife disinfected with alcohol to make the cut, with the incision in a 30° oblique plane. During the maintenance period, keep the substrate EC value ≤0.8mS/cm, and immediately remove any lateral buds.
Scion Quality Control
The scion of the cactus should have: ① leaf-like stem thickness ≥3mm, ② retain 2-4 growing nodes, ③ intact cuticle wax layer. It is recommended to select scions collected in the morning when the cell turgor pressure is sufficient and the vascular bundle activity is optimal.
PRECISE GRAFTING OPERATION
Adopt the composite grafting method: ① cut the rootstock 1.5-2cm deep, ② shape the scion into a double-sided wedge, ③ align the cambium with an error of <0.2mm. Use sterile bamboo sticks for fixation to avoid metal materials causing rust rot disease. Maintain an 85%-90% shading rate in the first 5 days after grafting.
Critical Maintenance Stage After Grafting
Survival period (12-15 days): control the temperature at 22±2℃, use a misting system to maintain air humidity. Leaf expansion period (16-30 days): spray 0.1% phosphorus acid hydrogen potassium every week, combined with a light intensity of 4000Lux. Molding period (from day 31): gradually increase direct sunlight to 4 hours per day, and apply 5-8 slow-release fertilizers monthly.
Through systematic management, the survival rate of grafting can reach over 92%. It is recommended to check the healing condition of the grafting interface regularly and promptly prevent and treat pests and diseases such as scale insects. Successful plants can present the unique landscape of pitaya stems supporting a cactus flower waterfall the following year.