Cactus Top Cuts and Mid Cuts Explained

We often get asked what the difference between a top cut and a mid (middle) cutting is, so we made a video to explain it.

In this video we are demonstrating the difference between a top and mid cut for a San Pedro Cactus (Echinopsis Pachanoi), however, this advice applies to all columnar cacti that can propagate from cuttings.

A top cut is only cut on one end and includes the head or “crown”. New growth on a top cut will come from the top as if it was never cut in the first place.

A mid (middle) cut is cut on both ends. New growth on a mid-cut will come as new branches or “pups”. Mid-cuts can be planted vertically or horizontally (log-style). If planted vertically the roots will grow from the bottom cut section. If planted horizontally, the roots will come directly through the side of the cactus that is making contact with the dirt.

When planting a mid-cut vertically it is essential to make sure you are planting the cactus the right way up. The easiest way to tell which way is up is to look for the notch or “eyebrow”. This will always be ABOVE the aeroles/spines, never below. If your cutting doesn’t have obvious notches, another way to tell is that the aeroles will always face upwards and the spines will typically point down.

When making a cactus cutting we like to dip or sprinkle a bit of sulphur onto the cut end. In addition to Sulphurs anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, the powder also helps to accelerate drying times which greatly reduces instances of cuttings developing rot.