Epiphyllum, Large-flowered Mixed Hybrids

Germination

Sow indoors at any time but ideally in spring or summer. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained cactus compost, or other soil-less compost. Do not cover seed. Place in a propagator. Ideal temp. 20-25°C. Once germinated remove from propagator and grow on in cooler conditions. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual 13cm pots and when grown pot on to 20cm pots. Grow on under glass.

Growing

Grow under glass. Requires a minimum temp. 10°C in winter and 15°C during the growing season. Best pot grown in a sharply drained media, a speciality cactus soil is ideal or use 3:1 loam based compost and grit or perlite. The pots should be placed in bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sun. The plant prefers humidity, this can be created by placing the pot in a tray filled with gravel, add water, and keep topped up to just below the surface of the gravel. Water only as the soil starts to dry out. Apply a cactus fertiliser every 2 weeks. Plants may be moved outside Jun-Sep.

Cultivation

Overlong stems can be cut off or shortened. New shoots should develop just behind the cut. Reduce watering slightly after cutting. Propagate by seed or stem cuttings taken in late summer.