Expert: Greg Simpson - 8/21/2007

Question
Dear Greg,

How easy is it to graft succulents? Is there a universal rootstock? Can you graft succulents to a cactus or succulents to other succulent? I am specifically wondering if I can graft two species of aloe to a cactus rootstock but if that cannot be done can I graft them to something else?

Answer
Will,

How easy is it to graft succulents? It isn't for beginners, however it can be done fairly easily. See: http://faculty.ucc.edu/biology-ombrello/POW/grafted_cacti.htm

Is there a universal rootstock? No, but depending on the scion, some work better than others.

Can you graft succulents to a cactus or succulents to other succulent? No to the first part. See the above webpage.

I am specifically wondering if I can graft two species of aloe to a cactus rootstock but if that cannot be done can I graft them to something else? I have never heard of that being done, but I do not believe Aloe's can be grafted because of the structure of its stem.

Sorry I could not be of more help.

Sincerely,

Greg