Expert: Maureen - 4/4/2010

Question
QUESTION: I recently took several cuttings from totem pole cactus that I wish to replant at a new home.  They are about three feet tall and have been cut for approx a week.  Now to plant them, what soil should they be planted in?  Also, how deep should they be planted.  The cuttings are mostly on a slant since I cut where the arms joined the trunk - do these have to be cut further to make them stright with the ground.  I assume I have to stake these to keep them upright untill well rooted.  Any advise would be appreciated.

ANSWER: Sorry of the delay in my response.  I wanted another opinion. Here's the consensus. Allow them to dry 10 to 45 days before planting. (Thick cuts and cool weather require a longer drying period). To dry the wounds, leave the cutting in a shady, warm exposure, not direct sun. Then plant in
DRY cactus potting soil and do not water for another 10 - 45 days. After the cuttings develop a root system it is safe to start a light, regular watering cycle. Always let the soil dry out completely between applications of water. It is MUCH more likely that a cutting will be killed by over watering than under watering.

It is OK to leave them on a slant.  Plant them deep enough  so they can stand up and, yes, they may need staking, in a pot not much wider than the cutting.  Keep in a lightly shaded spot till they root than gradually acclimate them to direct sun.  I'd leave each in it's pot for at least 6 months before planting directly outside, if that's your goal.

Again, sorry for the delay.

Maureen

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for the answers to my question regarding totem pole cactus.  I have planted the cuttings as you suggested after allowing them to callus.  They appear to be doing fine - I'm not sure how I would know otherwise.  We got some heavy rains after they were planted but they seem fine.  I have since taken just a few more cuttings and am waiting to plant them.  Again, thank you for the advise.

Answer
Depending on when you planted them I'd wait at least a month and then just gently give the plant a tug.  If there is resistance it means the plant in starting to root.  It may take many months so be patient.  If the plants weren't doing well they would get mushy or shriveled.  You'd be able to tell.  I'd appreciate it if you let me know how long they did take to root.