Question
Hello Greg:

I'm following up on your earlier response to Courtney regarding Christmas Cactus:
I currently have a two year old plant that is put out 3 shoots (new sections/joints)on only one branch, one of these is over 20 inches long and the most recent section now has a group of 4 new sections/joints at its end. The plant is unattractive and becoming difficult to contain so I would like to curtail the growth of these extensions on the one shoot and have it thicker and spreading from the base. How can I do this?
For example: By cutting the cactus at one of the joints, might new shoots start from the base or from the joint that has been cut? By putting the cut sections in the pot with the origin plant, will it form roots and a new plant begin? Would I need to use some type of rooting hormone to get the plant started? How would I get the extension (or joint) which has 4 new growth ends to develop into a new independent plant? What is the best fertilizer for encouring growth and flowering in a Christmas cactus?
I look forward to your reply. Frank  

Answer
Dear Frank,

See below:

By cutting the cactus at one of the joints, might new shoots start from the base or from the joint that has been cut? Yes they will, but not necessarily more than one. But it should make the plant look fuller.

By putting the cut sections in the pot with the origin plant, will it form roots and a new plant begin? Yes, and some won't. Just make sure you let the cut area dry for a few days before replanting.

Would I need to use some type of rooting hormone to get the plant started? No, but you can try one. I use "Superthrive" on all of my plants, cuttings and transplsnts alike.

How would I get the extension (or joint) which has 4 new growth ends to develop into a new independent plant? Cut it off so that there is at least 2 inches below the branches and plant it as I describe above.

What is the best fertilizer for encouring growth and flowering in a Christmas cactus? That I don't know, however, darkness is the key. Place the plant in total darkness for a week or two, then bring it back out. I have heard this causes the plant to flower.

Hope this help!

Sincerely,

Greg