Propagating Cacti by Offsets
Propagating Cacti by Planting Offsets
In this article we will show you how to increase the number of cacti you have by removing the offsets. The cacti in this example is a Chamaelobivia, its common name is the peanut cactus due to the stems resembling peanuts in their shells.
Step 1
This is a mature Chamaelobivia, or Peanut cactus, that has numerous offsets that can be used to produce more plants.
Step 2
Choose some suitable offsets to remove. They should be healthy and undamaged. We have chosen this round offset at the front of the photo. The best time to take these is when the plant is actively growing in the spring or summer.
Using a pair of gloves or a piece of newspaper folded over into a thick strip to protect your hands from the cactus spines when you remove the offset. Remove the offsets by using a gentle twisting motion. Twist off as many of the offsets that you want to grow on.
Step 3
Leave the offsets to dry for a couple of days. This is so that the bottom of the offset calluses over so that there is less chance of the offset rotting when planted.
Step 4
Place the offsets into a pot of cacti and succulent compost. Cacti and Succulent compost has additional sand and grit added to aid drainage. Water sparingly, allowing the compost to totally dry out between waterings.
In about 6 weeks the offsets should start to produce roots.
Step 5
This is a Chamaelobivia offset that was taken 12 months previously. It is now producing its own offsets.
Step 6
Two years on and the original cutting has now flowered. On the left of the largest piece you can see more hairy flower buds due to open.
