WHAT IS "MICROGRAFTING"
micrografting is a grafting technique used for very small scions or seedling.
WHAT YOULL NEED
-pereskiopsis rootstock(preferred)
-seedlings or small cacti
-little baggies or a humidity chamber
-a very thin/sharp new double edge shaving blade
-High % isopropyl alcohol
-Paper towel
-A plate
-dexterity helps
PREPING THE PERESKIOPSIS
PREPPING THE SCION
If you are using seedlings remove them from the soil and then remove any soil attached to the seedlings.
If you are using a small established cacti or pup as a scion cut the scion from the donor cactus so new pups can form.
APPLYING THE SCION
Cut a straight flat sliver off the top of your pereskiopsis to open a fresh contact point. Keep the sliver on to prevent the cut from drying.
Cut the scion in a straight flat fashion as well. Keep the scion on the blade
Make these cuts in one swipe as opposed to a back and forth cutting motion. This will help to keep your cut as flat as possible!
Remove the protective slice from your pereskiopsis and carfully place the scion ontop of the contact point off center from the middle to better line up with the vascular bundle. Then gently press the top of the scion to help it adhere. This can be difficult so here are some tips: 1. Use your thumb and middle finger to grab the pereskiopsis stalk while you press with your index. This really helps to steady your hand. 2: when pressing, some scions will slide. If so, start the scion in the center and as you press it will slide into place(offcenter) : )
AFTER CARE
Before placing your new graft in a high humidity environment let it be in the open air until the cuts/juices start to dry a little(about 10-20 mins). Its best to think of the cactus juices as a glue. . If the graft is put directly into a humid environment before the "cactus glue" drys it will keep the wounds open and cause more pereskiopsis juices to leak out which can dislodge your graft as well as attract mold.
Youll know it took when new growth appears. at this point it no longer needs the humidity.