Popular Grafted Cactus Types & Care Guide

Watering Needs

Grafted cactus watering requirements vary depending on the species involved in the grafting. As a general rule, you can sprinkle your plants once in a while with a spray bottle to water them. To avoid root rot, water them only after the soil has dried out, and make sure that any extra water drains out of the plant immediately.
As for growing seasons, grafted cacti typically follow the natural growth patterns of the top scion cactus. So, if the scion is a summer grower, it will thrive during the warmer months, while winter growers will be more active during the cooler seasons. It's important to research and understand the specific needs of the cactus species involved in the grafting to ensure they receive the right care throughout the year.

Light Requirements

When it comes to light requirements for grafted cacti, they generally prefer bright, indirect sunlight. If you're growing them indoors, place them near a sunny window where they can receive at least 6-8 hours of bright sunlight per day. If you're growing them outdoors, choose a spot that gets partial shade with bright filtered sunlight for most of the day. However, be mindful of extreme heat and intense sunlight, as some grafted cacti may require some protection or shading during the hottest parts of the day.

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

For grafted cacti healthy growth, provide them with well-draining soil and a balanced fertilizer. Cacti love soil that is sandy or gritty, allowing water to flow through easily and preventing root rot. You can create your own suitable potting mix by combining cactus soil with perlite or coarse sand. As for fertilizing, it's best to use a balanced NPK fertilizer specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.
Once a year in the spring, during the active growing season, you can fertilize your grafted cacti for healthy growth. However, during the dormant season, which is usually fall and winter, it's best to avoid fertilizing altogether. Remember to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and dilute it to the recommended (5-10-5) strength.

Hardiness Zones & More

Grafted cacti can generally tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but most prefer warm to hot conditions. The rootstock of your grafted cacti is frost-sensitive. Thus, if you live in areas that get colder during certain months, it is better to bring them indoors with an ideal temperature of around 60-80°F. As for outdoor conditions, it's important to know the USDA hardiness zone for your area. Different cacti species have different temperature tolerances, so it's crucial to choose varieties that are suitable for your specific zone.

For example, if you're in USDA Zone 9, you'll want to select cacti that can withstand temperatures down to 20-30°F. Additionally, grafted cacti appreciate low to moderate humidity levels, as high humidity can increase the risk of fungal diseases.

The Bottom Line

Overall, Cactus grafting is an effective method to save a dying plant. The best part is that grafted cacti demand little care and like to be treated just like ungrafted ones. The entire process is simple and can be done effortlessly. Grafted cacti often exhibit interesting combinations of colors, shapes, and growth habits. Additionally, grafting allows for the propagation of rare or slow-growing cacti, making it a valuable technique for cactus enthusiasts. So, if you're looking to add some unique and eye-catching cacti to your collection, grafting is definitely worth exploring. If you want to learn more about how to graft your cactus, you can read our article Everything you need to know about grafted cacti.