what happened to these grafts? and what should I do when I try again other than make fresh clean cuts?
it was difficult to hold the weirdly shaped crests in place, but they seemed connected properly… did I apply too much pressure? not enough ?
I pulled them off after 5 days when it was obvious they were not taking so I'd have a chance to redo it before they rotted.
I'm considering a V graft, like with trees to ensure more contact and less shifting.
by Better-in-the-end-3b
7 Comments
Did you sterilize?
Isopropyl everything, after every cut, before each cut. Unless u did that already.
Sharpen the tip of the stock cactus to a point and allow it to callous. After a week cut only the area needed and apply the scion. Use enough pressure to ensure complete contact. After a week or two remove the strings/screen used to secure.
Some stocks push the scions off as it callouses
I didn’t put alcohol on the cuts. Just the tools. should I spray alcohol an atomizer after cutting ? and does percent matter? I’m using 70% iso but have 90 as well
Well watered and fed grafting stock and scion will have a better chance. Do this a couple of days before cutting. Isopropyl sterilize brand new blade and wipe with a new clean paper towel. You don’t want it wet during the cut, that’s why you got the orange infection there. You can follow up with hydrogen peroxide on the blade in the same manner. Don’t introduce them into full sun right away. Shade for a week while the graft is wrapped in good ventilation and slowly return to full sun.
A v graft is not a bad idea, but it’s also not necessary. How were you applying pressure? I’ve had very good luck with using panty hose or rubber bands. Panty hose was easier. Water the plant 4-7 days before attempting the graft.
It was the will of Huitzilopochtli. 🤣 You will get it next time!