How to Graft Cattleya orchids onto Trigonopsis
If you want to know about the common knowledge of flower cultivation related to Trigonopsis, such as how to graft Cattleya orchids onto Trigonopsis, let's learn about it together.
Trigonopsis is one of the many rootstocks used for grafting Cattleya orchids. Many flower enthusiasts ask how to graft Cattleya orchids onto Trigonopsis. It's actually similar to cacti because of good compatibility, resulting in a high survival rate. Let's take a look at two grafting methods below.
1. Top grafting method:
This involves making a horizontal cut at the top of the Trigonopsis and then grafting. We can do a single top graft or combine it with a side graft.
Using Trigonopsis as the rootstock, it doesn't matter whether it's old or young. The younger Trigonopsis can be cut horizontally from the top to expose the pith, generally the smaller the pith, the better. Make a vertical light cut from any part of the pith. The selection of scion is crucial; you must choose a sturdy, elongated, and thick stem with two to three leaves, as such leaves are easy to cut. I cut the leaves from bottom to top to form a wedge shape. Then quickly insert the cut leaf into the incision of the Trigonopsis and secure it with a cactus thorn. That's it!
If the Trigonopsis is older and the core has become woody, that's fine. The knife should cut from the edge of the pith downwards without leaving the pith, the same as above.
2. Side grafting method:
For side grafting, you must start from the thorn seat and make a 45-degree cut towards the center, being careful not to cut through the pith. Insert the small Cattleya deeply into the pith from the incision. If the rootstock is too thick to reach the center, it's fine. There is also a pith channel in the center of the thorn seat. The purpose of making a 45-degree cut is to let the formation of the Cattleya and the rootstock's cambium layer intersect, resulting in a good bond.
After grafting, place the Cattleya orchids in a shaded, light-protected, and well-ventilated area to care for about two weeks. During these two weeks, do not water or spray water.
The above [] introduces the specific method of grafting Cattleya orchids onto Trigonopsis (figure), hoping everyone will like it!