How to Grow Buds From a Saguaro Cactus

Measure the diameter of the saguaro bud with a tape measure. Add 2 inches to the measurement to determine what size nursery container is required to successfully grow the bud.

Prepare the nursery container before gathering the saguaro bud. Fill the nursery container with succulent potting mix to within 2 inches of the top. Gently shake the container to settle the soil.

Gather the saguaro bud during the morning hours when the air is cool and moist. Work the blade of a garden trowel into the soil halfway between the bud and the main plant. Press the garden trowel into the soil to a depth of 4 inches.

Push the blade of the garden trowel underneath the bud at a 45-degree angle. Slide the blade around the bud to detach it from the surrounding soil. Cut through the soil in a 1- to 2-inch radius around the bud to protect the roots from damage.

Push the blade underneath the saguaro bud to its full length. Pull the handle back toward the ground to pry the bud from the soil. Lift the bud out of the ground. Remove half of the soil from around the roots.

Settle the roots of the saguaro bud onto the soil in the nursery container. Backfill around the roots with succulent potting mix until they are buried and the soil level is flush with the original base of the saguaro bud.

Place the potted saguaro bud in a warm, partially shaded spot for five days before watering it. Apply only enough water to lightly moisten the top 2 inches of soil. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.

Keep the saguaro bud under warm, bright conditions out of direct sunlight for one to two months. Acclimate the saguaro bud to direct sunlight over the course of three weeks until it can stand full sun for six hours each day without scorching.

Transplant the saguaro into a permanent planter or garden bed once it is shows signs of growth. Keep it well-watered for the first few weeks after planting, then cease watering completely.