Night Blooming Cereus

Question

Our plant is well over 6 feet tall – full of leaves on the top and just stems on the bottom by the pot. We have it supported in a “tomato cage” on the top of the pot, which supports the long heavy branches. Can I cut it back and get it looking more full on the bottom by cutting one or two stems back? Can I also root and plant the leaves that are on the top of the stems down in the pot?

Thank you,
Rosemary Donohue
(Long Island, New York)
[e-mail]

Answer 1

The first week of March is a great time to prune your Cereus.
Using a sterile knife or scissors prune the plant back severely, the stems can be left about 6" high.
Water throughly and allow excess to drain freely.
Use a 15-30-15 fertilizer application applied every 4 weeks/ until September.
Water only when the soil feels dry to the touch after pruning.

Give the plant 8 hours of good indirect light.
Flowers form on new growth and make sure you place a good sturdy trellis into the pot to support the new growth.

Here is a link with more care information.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/night-blooming-cereus/night-blooming-cereus.htm