What Is Grafting and How to Do It with Copiapoa

Grafting is a horticultural technique in which a piece of one plant (the scion—the desired Copiapoa) is joined to the root system and lower stem of another compatible plant (the rootstock) so that the vascular tissues unite and the scion grows on the stock’s roots. It is used with Copiapoa primarily to accelerate the extremely slow growth of seedlings or rare forms, to rescue damaged plants, or to produce larger specimens more quickly for collectors. Compatible rootstocks include vigorous columnar cacti such as Trichocereus/Echinopsis species, Harrisia, or, for tiny seedlings, the leafy Pereskiopsis.

Perform grafting during active growth when both plants are turgid and healthy. Sterilize a sharp razor blade or grafting knife thoroughly. Cut the rootstock cleanly and horizontally near the top (in recent growth tissue), optionally beveling the outer edges slightly to prevent the drying cut from pulling the scion upward. Immediately prepare the scion by making a clean flat cut across its base. Align the vascular rings (the circular arrangement of conductive tissue visible on the cut surface) so that they at least partially overlap, then press the scion firmly onto the stock to exclude air bubbles. Secure the union with rubber bands, grafting tape, or weights that apply gentle, even pressure. Place the grafted plant in a warm, bright but shaded location with good air movement and withhold water for several days to a couple of weeks while the tissues fuse. Once the union is established (new growth appears on the scion), gradually introduce normal care and stronger light. Success rates are high with clean technique and proper aftercare.