How to graft Christmas cactus

1. Grafting time

Grafting can be done at temperatures between 10 and 30 degrees Celsius, with spring and autumn being the best seasons. If the temperature is too high, the incision of the scion will easily dry out and rot; if the temperature is too low, the incision will be difficult to heal and the survival rate will be low. The most suitable time for grafting is the warm and sunny days from Qingming to Guyu, and from Hanlu to Lidong.

2. Rootstock Selection and Treatment

The rootstocks for Christmas cactus grafting can be selected from cactus, hollyhock, etc.

Cut long, strong branches that are more than 10 cm long from the mother plant, place them in the sun to dry for 3 to 4 days. After the cut becomes dry, insert them into the soil to germinate. After they grow roots, they can be potted as grafting material.

3. Cutting of scion

Choose a green, healthy, disease- and insect-free Christmas cactus and cut the top node as the scion.

Use a knife to cut off the lower 1/3 of the stem node until the white wood is exposed, and finally cut the bottom into a wedge shape. When cutting, use the knife decisively and do not cut repeatedly.

4. Grafting Method

At the top of the rootstock, cut a 2 cm notch lengthwise, the same width as the scion.

Cut the lower end of the stem node into a 1.5 cm duck tongue shape and insert it into the cut of the rootstock. Insert it tightly to prevent it from slipping out.

5. Post-reception management

After grafting, place it in a cool and ventilated place indoors to avoid direct sunlight.

Pay attention to avoid rain and prevent waterlogging to prevent water accumulation in the pot and cause rot. At the same time, control watering and keep the soil in the pot moist.

Fertilization must be accurate. Do not apply fertilizer before the grafting takes effect. After the grafting takes effect, a small amount of low-concentration, decomposed fertilizer will be enough. When applying fertilizer, do not pour it directly onto the plant to avoid stem rot.

To increase the survival rate, you can put a large plastic bag on the Christmas cactus after grafting to increase humidity and promote germination .