Epiphyllum: Tips and Tricks
Epiphyllums are very easy to grow plants that seem to grow best when neglected. They add a wonderful accent to any back-yard garden or patio. In very cold zones a containerized Epiphyllum can be brought inside for the winter months. Most will survive a very light frost and quickly return to normal in spring. In the northern end of their grow zone Epiphyllum plants should be brought indoors or protected during the winter months. When you receive your new potted plant open your box carefully and water if dry. Please take your time when opening. Most foliage damage occurs when the box is ripped open in the excitement of receiving new plants. Many plants, especially succulents, are fragile and leaves may snap easily if not handled cautiously.
Cuttings: Your cutting has been treated with a rooting hormone powder. Plant the treated side into the soil, about an inch. Root in a small pot with moist soil. Do not water again until the soil becomes dry. Over watering can cause the cutting to rot, so plant into a well-drained pot and soil. Don’t pack the soil down around the plant, keep the soil loose for best rooting.
CONTAINER SIZE Orchid Cactus Plants grow very well in patio containers. Allow enough room for growth generally an 8″ to a 12″ diameter, 6″ deep container will suffice, however the smaller variety plants will do well in a small 6″ round pot. Remember the looser the roots, the taller and healthier your plant will be. When the plant becomes root bound its growth will slow. At that point, it is time for a larger pot.
SOIL Epiphyllum enjoy well drained, sandy cactus mix. Remember try to stay away from wet, mucky soils.
FERTILIZER To help establish your new Epiphyllum, fertilize sparingly, biannually with a slow time release 15-5-10. Unfertilized they will tend to grow very slowly. WARNING – The heavy salts in cheaper fertilizers may damage the roots thus killing the plant.
GROW ZONE & LIGHT Best outdoors if grown in zone 9b-11. This plant requires 65-80% sunlight. Depending on your location filtered sun is best. The patio zone is 4b-11 which means the potted plant will flourish over the summer months in this zone but must be brought inside for the winter months. (avoid frost)