Propagating Rat Tail Cactus: A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginners

As an avid cactus collector and gardener, I’m always looking to add more of these unique succulents to my home and garden. One of my absolute favorites is the trailing rat tail cactus, which can be propagated quite easily. In this article, I’ll provide a step-by-step beginner’s guide to propagating rat tail cactus through offsets, cuttings and seeds. Let’s get started!

Native to Mexico and parts of South America the rat tail cactus (Aporocactus flagelliformis) is a hanging basket variety that can grow up to 3 feet long. It features trailing segmented stems covered in fine hair-like spines. The cactus produces delicate tubular flowers in summer.

This easy-care succulent thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. It also propagates readily making it a great choice for novice gardeners. Let’s look at some propagation methods

Propagating By Offsets

Propagating from offsets or “pups” is the easiest way to get new rat tail cactus plants, Here’s how it works

Step 1: Identify Mature Offsets

Check for offsets growing at the base of the mother plant that are 1-3 inches tall. Mature offsets will have well-defined segments and appearance similar to the parent.

Step 2: Detach The Offsets

Use sterile, sharp scissors or a knife to carefully detach the offsets from the main plant. Try to retain some roots.

Step 3: Allow The Ends To Callus

Place the cut offsets in a dry spot for 2-7 days until the ends harden off into callused scar tissue.

Step 4: Plant The Offset

Fill small pots with well-draining cactus soil. Make a hole and insert the callused offsets. Gently firm the soil.

Step 5: Provide Ideal Conditions

Give the newly planted offsets bright, indirect light. Water sparingly at first to prevent rot. In a few weeks, new growth will emerge!

Propagating By Stem Cuttings

You can also propagate rat tail cactus through stem cuttings. Follow these instructions:

Step 1: Cut A 6 Inch Segment

In early spring, use sharp, sterilized shears to cut a 6 inch segment of stem right above a node.

Step 2: Allow The Cutting To Callus

Place the cutting on a dry surface for 3-7 days until a callus forms on the cut end.

Step 3: Plant The Callused Cutting

Insert the callused end into a small pot filled with cactus soil. Lightly firm the soil around the stem.

Step 4: Provide Warmth And Indirect Light

Place the potted cutting in a warm spot (65-80°F) with bright, indirect light.

Step 5: Wait For New Growth

Keep the soil slightly dry at first to prevent rot. Be patient for new stems and roots to emerge in a few weeks!

Propagating Rat Tail Cactus By Seeds

Propagating rat tail cactus from seeds is more challenging but also rewarding. Follow these tips:

Step 1: Collect Seeds

After flowering ends, harvest the tiny seeds and let them fully dry.

Step 2: Sow Seeds In Cactus Soil

Fill starter pots with a light, quick-draining cactus soil mix. Sprinkle seeds on top and just barely cover with a bit of soil.

Step 3: Create A Warm, Humid Environment

Place seed pots in a warm spot (70-80°F) and cover with plastic wrap to retain humidity.

Step 4: Provide Bottom Heat And Light

Put seed pots over heating mats to warm roots from below. Provide 14 hours per day of bright, indirect light.

Step 5: Care For Seedlings

In 4-8 weeks, seedlings should emerge! Gradually acclimate them to lower humidity and transplant once mature.

Caring For New Rat Tail Cactus Plants

To keep your new propagated rat tail cactus thriving, provide these ideal growing conditions:

• Bright, indirect sunlight

• Average room temperatures of 65-80°F

• Let soil dry out between waterings to prevent rot

• Well-draining cactus soil

• Humidity around 40-60%

• Occasional dilute liquid fertilizer in spring and summer

• Protection from drafts and cold near windows/doors

Troubleshooting Propagation Problems

Here are some common propagation issues and how to fix them:

• Rotting stems: Allow cuttings to callus before planting, use very well-draining soil, don’t overwater.

• Poor root growth: Provide bright indirect light which stimulates root development.

• Leggy growth: Increase light exposure and avoid overwatering which causes stretching.

• Mealybugs or spider mites: Quarantine and treat pests immediately with insecticidal soap spray or neem oil application.

With the right care, your new propagated rat tail cactus plants will flourish! This trailing succulent is a perfect choice for beginner gardeners.

Displaying Your Trailing Rat Tail Cactus Plants

The vining stems of propagated rat tail cactus make them perfect for displaying in hanging baskets or arrangements. Here are some ideas:

• Create a desert-themed mixed hanging basket with other trailing succulents like burro’s tail or string of pearls.

• Let rat tail stems cascade over the edges of mantels, shelves, and tabletops.

• Plant in a tall, narrow container attached to a pole or trellis for a living “sculpture.”

• Pair with decor like seashells, air plants, sand and found wood pieces for boho chic style.

• Add height and texture by incorporating into succulent wreaths and vertical gardens.

• Use in terrariums along with small cacti, figurines, found objects, sand and rocks.