Cactus/Succulent Arm
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Question
Hi Maureen, I have been given a 2 foot arm broken off at the mother stalk of a Euphorbia Ammak variegetta. I would like to know if it would be better to root it as is, or should I slice off and callous the broken end. Also, would it survive and root if cut into three equal pieces?
Deasr Linda,
My preferernce is a clen cut with a sterilized knife, greatly cutting back the chance of fungus or bacteria in the crevices of a broken arm. Just be sure you wear gloves if you choose to do that.
If you want to cut it I wouldn't cut it into more than two pieces it will be a bit harder to root the piece that has two wounds but if you really let the wounds callous over till they feel corky they will probably do OK. Why do you want to cut it? This Euphorbia roots fairly quickly and will soon after set out off shoots that you could then root. If you can't wait than, again I wouldn't do more than two pieces just because it's not all that big of a cutting.
Maureen
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Maureen
Expertise
I can answer questions regarding the care and propagation of cactus and succulents and would actually group these together as folks often mistake one for the other and often their care is quite different. I also have a cold hardy cactus and succulent garden that has been quite successful. The subject in regard to classification of type is enormous and I wouldn't be able to answer all questions by any means. It is really IMPORTANT TO INCLUDE A PHOTO if at all possible and LET ME KNOW WHERE YOU ARE FROM, especially in terms of climate.
Experience
I have learned by reading books, by trial and error and by consulting with folks with much more knowledge. I have primarily grown C&S for the last 20 years.
Organizations
Cactus and Succulent Society of Massachusetts.
Education/Credentials
No formal training. See experience.
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