How to Graft Cactaceae Orchid Cacti
As a star variety among ornamental cacti, the orchid cacti are deeply favored by gardening enthusiasts for their unique hanging form and brilliant flowers. To obtain stronger plants and a richer flower yield, grafting techniques are essential core maintenance skills. This article will systematically explain the key points of the orchid cacti grafting process through illustrations and text.
One, Choosing the Best Time for Grafting Orchid Cacti
1.1 Optimal Grafting Period
Grafting success rates can reach 90% from March to June, when the average daily temperature is stable between 18-25°C, and the rootstock cacti are in a vigorous growth period with active cambium cell division. Experimental data show that the average healing time for scions grafted in spring is 5-7 days shorter than in autumn.
1.2 Environmental Factor Control
It is necessary to maintain air humidity at 65%-75% for 3 days before grafting and avoid rainy days. It is recommended to perform grafting in the morning from 9 to 11 am on consecutive sunny days, when the plant's transpiration is weaker and the secretion of sap from the cut is moderate.
Two, Rootstock Processing Specifications
2.1 Rootstock Selection Criteria
It is recommended to use 1-2-year-old cacti such as the tongue cactus or triangle column, with a diameter of ≥3 cm and 3-5 growing points. Tested rootstocks have a vascular bundle distribution density of 12-15/cm², providing ample nutrient channels.
2.2 Cut Creation Essentials
Use a crescent-shaped grafting knife sterilized with alcohol, make a cut 5 cm from the top at a 30° angle to a depth of 2 cm. Be sure to retain 1-2 spines, which are key positions for the later sprouting of new buds.
Three, Scion Processing and Grafting Practice
3.1 Scion Collection Specifications
Select the top 2-3 mature stem segments, retaining 1 pair of young leaves. Use a double-sided blade to create a 1 cm long wedge-shaped cut at the base, ensuring the cutting surface is smooth and free of burrs, and this operation should be completed within 10 minutes of removing from the mother plant.
3.2 Grafting Fixation Techniques
Fit the wedge-shaped surface of the scion tightly with the rootstock cut, and secure it with a sterilized cactus spine. It is crucial to align the cambium layers of both, which is the core of successful vascular bundle connection; misalignment over 0.5mm will lead to grafting failure.
Four, Key Post-Grafting Maintenance Points
4.1 Environmental Regulation Stage
For the first 7 days, maintain a diffused light environment with air humidity at 80%-85%. From the 8th day, gradually increase sunlight, adding 1 hour of direct light each day, and return to normal management after 20 days.
4.2 Water and Fertilizer Management Points
Do not water within 10 days after grafting, and on the 11th day, pour 50 ml of clear water along the pot edge. After survival, apply phosphorus-potassium fertilizer (N-P-K=5-15-30) once a month, with the concentration kept below 0.1%.
Mastering the correct grafting technique for orchid cacti can not only enhance the plant's disease resistance but also achieve composite grafting of different varieties, creating ornamental potted plants with multiple colors blooming simultaneously. It is recommended for beginners to start practicing in spring, combining this tutorial's illustrated steps to gradually master core techniques such as cut alignment and cambium matching.