Cactus propagation and conservation

Horticulture input from RBG Kew 2007

Now that the development of techniques for Huarango habitat restoration is well under way, the project is turning to other aspects of the dry forest flora. Many associated plants live within and around the microclimate provided by the Huarango trees, including several cactus species.

Kew diploma student Sandra King visited the project for 3 weeks in June 2007 to investigate options for the conservation of the native cacti, and to explore the viability of starting a programme of cultivation for commercial purposes.

Sales of cacti for horticulture would not only bring in revenue for the project (helping to fund further conservation work), but would also contribute to the long-term viability of the native plant nursery that the project has established.

Sandra undertook a feasibility study for cactus propagation unit at the tree nursery, looking into the most appropriate methods and materials for the site. She also passed on propagation and cultivation techniques, learnt on her work placement in Kew 's tropical nursery, to staff and students involved in the project.

A handbook on the ecology, economic uses and cultivation of cacti will be produced as a product of Sandra's visit, to be disseminated among local communities in the area. This will raise local awareness of the uses of these plants, and the need to protect them in the wild.

Cactus propagation bench, Kew

Collecting Harrisia seeds