How To Propagate Monkey Tail Cactus

A monkey tail cactus is undoubtedly a great choice when it comes to adding succulents to your houseplant collection. 

Apart from offering a unique touch to your décor, these hairy plants require minimal care and are relatively easy to grow, which is why they are always in demand. Now before you get one, I strongly suggest reading my guide, as it includes everything you need to know about propagating a monkey tail cactus. 

So, let’s begin. 

How To Propagate Monkey Tail Cactus 

1. Seed Propagation 

Step 1 

First, you need to collect some ripe seeds from a fresh monkey tail cactus plant. After that, place them into a glass tub and leave them for a day or two till their outer skin has dried. I highly recommend using gloves while doing it to avoid the thorny hairs from the plant from getting stuck on your fingers. 

Step 2 

Next, you have to get rid of the outer skin. You can do so by using your hand or with the help of a wire mesh sieve. Once you are done, fill small tubs with cactus soil and sow the seeds casually on the surface of the soil. 

Step 3 

After that, cover the seedlings and put them under sunlight. Make sure the soil is moist but not entirely wet; this will allow the seeds to germinate. Note that this process may take months, so you must be patient. 

Step 4 

Once your plants become large enough, remove them from the small tubs and place them into a new pot containing cactus soil. 

2. Stem Cutting Propagation 

Step 1 

First things first, you need to choose a healthy stem around 5 inches in length. The larger, the better. After that, fill a small container with cactus soil and ensure that it has adequate drainage to prevent root decay. 

Step 2 

Next, remove the thorns from the lower half of the cutting, and push it gently into the soil, so that the only thing that sticks out is the tip. Again, make sure that the soil is moist, and place it somewhere with no direct sunlight. 

Step 3 

Then, you need to wait until the cutting has developed a root system. Once the plant shows development, you can transplant it into a larger tub with traditional cactus soil. 

Final Thoughts