How to Propagate an Orchid Cactus

There are several varieties of the orchid cactus. Some bloom only at night with delicate white flowers. Other hybrids bloom during the day in a variety of vibrant colors. Once enthusiasts find a hybrid that they like, they want to keep it around forever. One of the best ways to propagate a hybrid that retains all of the physical characteristics of its parents is via stem cutting. The best time to take stem cuttings is in early spring during annual pruning.

Pruning shears
Planting container
Cactus potting mix
Houseplant stake (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the terminal 6 inches from one of the orchid cactus's healthiest, most prolific stems.
- 2
  Place the cutting on a paper towel and allow it to dry out in a cool shady spot for one week.
- 3
  Fill a small plastic planting container to within 1/2 inch of its lip with a cacti or succulent potting mix. To make your own, mix 3 parts potting soil with 1 part pumice, perlite or bark chips.
- 4
  Plant the cutting growing-tip-down (with the cut end sticking up) 1 to 2 inches deep so that no more than two leaf "serrations" are submerged. If the cutting will not stand up on its own, tie it loosely to a houseplant stake (available at most home and garden centers).
- 5
  Place the pot in a spot where it will receive full (six to eight hours daily), indirect sunlight.
- 6
  Mist the cutting once daily (mist only, do not water) for three weeks. Then water the potting mix with a spray bottle to just moisten it to its depth. Resume misting for three weeks and then water again. After the second watering, begin watering the plant weekly or whenever the top 1/2 inch of soil dries out.
- 7
  Check the plant to see if it has rooted by pulling up on it gently. If it resists, it has roots.
- 8
  Plant the cactus orchid out in its permanent location one month after you check it for roots.

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