When you come across these fascinating cacti, you might mistake the colorful top for flowers. However, the truth is that these are two different species of cacti grafted together. The vibrant cactus on top is actually a mutant variation of a standard cactus.
In the wild, if a mutant pup is formed, it would eventually detach from the parent plant and die since it cannot photosynthesize. The reason for this inability is the absence of chlorophyll, which is crucial for the photosynthesis process.
To survive, a mutant pup needs alternative means of obtaining nutrients. This is where grafting comes into play. The mutant pups are grafted onto rootstock plants that can photosynthesize normally. These rootstock plants provide enough nutrients for both themselves and their grafted partners, enabling both to thrive. Common rootstocks used in grafting cacti include species like Hylocereus, Myrtillocactus geometrizans, Trichocereus pasacana, Harrisia jusbertii, Cereus peruvianus, and many more.
Although most of the colorful mutants you see are derived from the species Gymnocalycium mihanovichii and Lobivia silvestrii variegate, the possibilities of grafting are endless and not limited to mutants.
The main purpose of grafting is to showcase the Gymnocalycium at an advantageous height. These plants are often found in cactus dish gardens that are frequently offered for sale. They are not demanding houseplants, but they do come with their challenges.
Growing Conditions for Grafted Cacti
Light
The tops of Gymnocalycium cacti can tolerate more shade compared to many other cacti and dislike direct sunlight.
Water
Allow the soil mix to almost dry out between waterings, and then water thoroughly. Ensure there is proper drainage and avoid letting the pots sit in water. During the winter, reduce watering but mist the plants occasionally.
Soil
Use a rich, fast-draining cactus mix for optimal growth.
Fertilizer
During the growing season, fertilize with a cacti fertilizer mix. Suspend feeding during the dormant winter period.
It’s important not to water these grafted cacti too often or get the “ball” wet.
As these cacti are grafted, they are not suitable for propagation. However, if you are interested in learning how to graft cacti yourself, it’s a relatively simple process, and many species can be successfully grafted.
On some older plants, the Gymnocalycium on the top naturally produces offsets that cluster around the larger plant like satellites. You can remove these offsets and pot them up as individual Gymnocalycium plants, but they lack the supporting green cactus that supplies chlorophyll, causing them to die eventually.
Cactus Repotting
Repot the grafted cactus as needed, preferably during the warm season. Make sure the soil is dry before repotting and gently remove the pot. Remove any old or rotted roots, ensuring healthy roots remain.
Gymnocalycium cacti come in many varieties and are highly sought after by collectors. The common ruby ball grafted plant relies on the G. mihanovichii, which is available in red, yellow, orange, or pink. Older plants may even produce pink flowers during the summer, often mistaken for the top ball being a flower when it’s actually part of the plant.
It’s worth noting that the ruby ball hybrids cannot produce their own chlorophyll and therefore rely on the grafted rootstock for sustenance.
If you can successfully grow cacti and succulents, you can likely care for the ruby ball cactus without much trouble. These cacti prefer a drying period between waterings, sometimes even slightly wilting before watering deeply. It’s crucial to avoid prolonged dampness and standing water. Fertilize during the growing season for the best results.
Why Graft Cacti?
Cacti are grafted for various reasons. It may be to mechanically produce a different species or create disease-free stems. Grafting can also enhance photosynthesis in plants that lack the ability or create unique forms, such as weeping plants.
In fruiting plants, grafting increases the maturity of existing cultivars for earlier fruit production. The scion becomes the top part of the plant, retaining all the characteristics of the originating species. The rootstock forms the roots and base of the plant. Once the joining wounds have healed, no special care is required for grafted cacti. Simply grow them like any other plant.
Studies have proven that houseplants improve concentration and productivity (by up to 15%), reduce stress levels, and boost your mood. So let’s surround ourselves with plants!
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