Paul Johnston is the founder and master herbalist of The Herb Prof, with decades of clinical experience in naturopathic medicine, herbal remedies, detoxification and holistic wellness. After overcoming his own serious health challenges, he now dedicates himself to helping others reclaim their health naturally.
How do you start a Thanksgiving cactus in water? This simple and effective method is a great way to propagate this well-loved plant. Water propagation works especially well for beginners or anyone curious about trying different techniques. In this article, I’ll walk you through my favorite tips and tricks for successfully starting a Thanksgiving cactus in water.
Before we get started, it’s important to note that not all cacti can be propagated in water. However, Thanksgiving cacti (Schlumbergera truncata) are one of the few varieties that can be propagated this way. Water propagation is also a great way to save a plant that has become too tall or leggy, as it encourages new growth from the base of the plant. In the next section, I will explain how to select the right cutting for water propagation.
Propagating a Thanksgiving Cactus: Basics
As a plant lover, I have always been fascinated by the Thanksgiving cactus. It is a beautiful plant that blooms in the fall and winter, adding a touch of color and warmth to any home. One of the best things about this plant is that it is easy to propagate, making it a great choice for beginners.
Before we dive into the details of propagating a Thanksgiving cactus, let’s go over some basics. First, it’s important to understand what propagation is. Propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing ones. There are several ways to propagate a Thanksgiving cactus, including water propagation, soil propagation, and stem-cutting propagation.
Water propagation is a simple and effective way to propagate a Thanksgiving cactus. To get started, you will need a healthy Thanksgiving cactus plant, a clean container, and some water.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Take a healthy leaf or stem cutting from your Thanksgiving cactus plant. Make sure the cutting is at least 3-4 segments long.
- Place the cutting in a clean container filled with water. Make sure the water covers at least one segment of the cutting.
- Place the container in a bright, indirect location. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can damage the cutting.
- Change the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth.
- After a few weeks, you should start to see roots growing from the cutting. Once the roots are at least 1-2 inches long, you can transplant the cutting into the soil.
It’s important to note that not all cuttings will take root, so it’s a good idea to take several cuttings to increase your chances of success. Additionally, make sure to use a clean container and change the water regularly to prevent bacterial growth.
In conclusion, propagating a Thanksgiving cactus is a simple and rewarding process. With a little patience and care, you can create new plants from your existing Thanksgiving cactus and enjoy their beautiful blooms for years to come.
Steps to Start a Thanksgiving Cactus in Water
Procuring the Cutting
The first step to start a Thanksgiving Cactus in water is to procure a healthy cutting from a mature plant. Look for a healthy stem that is at least 3 segments long. Ensure that it is free from pests, diseases, and damage. Cut the stem using a clean, sharp knife or scissors.
Preparing the Cutting
Next, prepare the cutting for rooting. Remove the bottom segment of the cutting using a clean, sharp knife or scissors. This will expose the inner flesh of the stem and allow it to absorb water. Allow the cutting to dry for a few hours or overnight. This will help to prevent rotting and increase the chances of successful rooting.
Placing the Cutting in Water
Once the cutting is dry, place it in a clean glass jar or vase filled with fresh water. Ensure that the bottom segment of the cutting is submerged in the water, while the upper segments are above the waterline. Place the jar or vase in a warm, bright location, away from direct sunlight. Change the water every few days to prevent stagnation and bacterial growth.
In a few weeks, you should start to see roots growing from the bottom of the cutting. Once the roots are at least 1 inch long, you can transplant the cutting into a pot filled with well-draining soil. Water the cutting sparingly and avoid fertilizing until it has established itself in the soil.
By following these simple steps, you can easily start a Thanksgiving Cactus in water and enjoy the beauty of this unique plant in your home.
Tips for Successful Propagation
The right time for Obtaining a Cutting
To propagate a Thanksgiving cactus successfully, it is essential to obtain a healthy cutting from the parent plant. The best time to obtain a cutting is in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Look for a healthy stem that is at least 3-4 segments long. The stem should be firm and not too woody or too succulent. Avoid taking cuttings from a plant that is stressed, diseased, or has recently bloomed.
Proper Healing Process for the Cutting
After obtaining the cutting, it is crucial to let it dry and heal for a few days before planting it in water. This process helps to prevent the cutting from rotting and increases the chances of successful propagation. Place the cutting in a dry and shaded area for 2-3 days until the cut end forms a callus. Once the cutting has formed a callus, it is ready to be planted in water.
To plant the cutting in water, fill a glass jar or vase with clean water and place the cutting in it. Make sure that the bottom segment of the cutting is submerged in water and that the upper segments are above the waterline. You can also add a few drops of rooting hormone to the water to increase the chances of successful propagation. Place the jar or vase in a bright and warm location, but avoid direct sunlight. Change the water every few days to prevent the growth of bacteria and algae.
By following these tips, you can successfully propagate a Thanksgiving cactus in water and enjoy the beauty of this plant in your home.
Before You Go – How To Start A Thanksgiving Cactus In Water
Starting a Thanksgiving cactus in water is an easy and effective way to propagate this beautiful plant. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully grow new Thanksgiving cacti from cuttings. Remember to use a sharp, clean knife or scissors to take your cuttings, and to allow the cuttings to dry for a few days before placing them in water.
Once your cuttings are in the water, be sure to change the water frequently and keep the container in a bright, warm location. You can also add rooting hormone to the water to encourage faster rooting.
It is important to note that not all cuttings will root successfully, but with patience and persistence, you can increase your chances of success. If you have trouble getting your cuttings to root, try adjusting the lighting or temperature in your growing area, or consider using a rooting hormone gel instead of water.
Overall, starting a Thanksgiving cactus in water is a fun and rewarding way to expand your plant collection and share your love of gardening with others. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy beautiful blooms and lush foliage from your Thanksgiving cactus for many years to come.
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References – How To Start A Thanksgiving Cactus In Water
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
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Frequently Asked Questions – How To Start A Thanksgiving Cactus In Water
What is the proper method to propagate a Thanksgiving cactus in water?
To propagate a Thanksgiving cactus in water, take a cutting from a healthy plant and place it in a container filled with water. Make sure the cutting has at least three segments and comes from the end of the stem. Keep the container in bright, indirect light, and change the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth.
Can a Thanksgiving cactus cutting be rooted directly in water?
Yes, a Thanksgiving cactus cutting can root directly in water. However, water rooting doesn’t always succeed, and the cutting may take longer to form roots than it would in soil.
What are the steps to ensure successful water rooting of a Thanksgiving cactus?
To root a Thanksgiving cactus successfully in water, take a healthy cutting, remove any flowers or buds, and place it in a container filled with water. Keep the container in bright, indirect light, and change the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth. After a few weeks, roots form, and you can transplant the cutting into soil.
How do you care for a Thanksgiving cactus after rooting it in water?
After rooting a Thanksgiving cactus in water, transplant it into well‑draining, slightly acidic soil. Place the plant in bright, indirect light and water it when the top inch of soil dries out. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
What are the ideal conditions for a Thanksgiving cactus to bloom after water propagation?
To encourage blooming after water propagation, place the cactus in bright, indirect light and maintain a temperature between 60 and 70°F. Water when the top inch of soil dries out and fertilize every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
How often should you change the water when starting a Thanksgiving cactus in it?
Change the water every few days when rooting a Thanksgiving cactus in water. Frequent changes prevent bacterial growth and help the cutting root successfully.