With well over 1300 species, Cacti are members of the Succulent group of plants and are native to the Americas from the southern tip of South America to Alaska.
The easiest way to propagate Cacti, and other succulent plants, is by division or from cuttings during their growing season from spring through summer. Branches and side sprouts can easily be cut off and started in a new pot of 75% perlite or vermiculite and 25% sand, or in a special growing medium just for cacti, available at most nurseries and garden centers. These cuttings or side sprouts and pods should be allowed to dry out for a few days to avoid plant rot before planting in soil (growing medium). Spray or mist the surface of the soil and place the container with the new cutting in a position where it well receive plenty of light. After plant shows signs of growth, start fertilizing with a special fertilizer especially prepared for cacti, available at most nurseries and garden centers. Do not allow the soil to dry out too much because the young plant has not yet grown sufficiently to retain enough moisture.
Cacti will produce flowers that, after pollination by insects, will produce either dry seeds or fleshy berries. These berries (containing the seed) will need to be dried out before planting. These seeds will remain viable for years.
Start seeds in a mixture of about 75% perlite or vermiculite and 25% sand or the specially prepared growing medium for cacti and succulents. If you are planting a large number of seeds, use a standard nursery flat. Label the seeds so that you know which species are growing where. After seeds have been planted to a depth of about 1/4 inch, spray or mist the surface of the soil (growing medium). Cover the flat with a sheet of clear glass or plastic to retain moisture during the first few weeks of germination. Place the flat in a location that gets plenty of light. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely but do not allow it to become soggy or to remain so damp that mold begins to grow. Keeping soil damp enough for seeds to germinate may also produce the kind of environment that will allow the formation of some mold and various diseases that can cause problems. It is important to treat with fungicides in order to promote healthy young cactus sprouts. Do not allow the soil to get too cold. Germination of seeds will require a temperature of about 70 to 75 degrees F. The use of an electric heating pad Or electric light will be helpful when propagating seeds during winter months. After sprouts have established themselves, the glass or plastic covering will no longer be needed. Eventually, repot into individual containers (with hole at bottom for drainage) and water less frequently. Cacti can be fertilized at this time.