How to Transplant the Arm of a Saguaro Cactus

Commonly called saguaro cactus, Carnegiea gigantea is a large species of cactus known for its characteristic arm-like branches. The arms appear once the cactus reaches a minimum of 70 years of age, so they are a great indicator of the age of the plant. Oftentimes, strong wind or extreme fluctuations in moisture or temperature will cause the arms to break off, necessitating an immediate transplant if you want the arm to root. Transplanting saguaro arms presents few challenges, but handling the heavy, spiny arm can be dangerous and is best done with at least two people.

Sharpshooter shovel
Heavy work gloves
Burlap
Coarse sand

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length and diameter of the saguaro arm to determine the dimensions of the planting hole. Dig a hole 2 inches larger in diameter and half the length of the saguaro arm using a sharpshooter shovel or other narrow-bladed digging implement.
- 2
  Put on heavy work gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt before attempting to move the saguaro arm.
- 3
  Measure out a large portion of burlap equal in length and circumference to the saguaro arm. Spread it out beside the saguaro arm.
- 4
  Roll the arm onto the burlap until it rests squarely in the center. Grasp one side of the burlap while a second person grasps the other. Lift the saguaro arm and carry it to the planting hole.
- 5
  Position the broken end of the saguaro arm above the hole. Tilt the burlap so the saguaro arm slides off and into the hole.
- 6
  Hold the saguaro arm upright in the hole while a second person fills in around the base with a mixture of half garden soil and half coarse sand.
- 7
  Water the saguaro cactus arm two weeks after transplanting it. Apply no more than 2 inches of water around the base of the saguaro every five days. Do not water the saguaro for longer than two months.
- 8
  Watch for renewed growth in four months but do not be discouraged if it takes longer since saguaros are often very slow-growing.

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