Ocotillo Arm Propagation: Mound Method for Success

Proven Technique

Cut an arm from an established ocotillo to start a new plant.

Steps

1. Cut arm; let callus 3–5 days in shade.
2. Plant 3–4 inches deep in native soil.
3. Mound soil 4 inches around base (looks like stick in small hill).
4. No soil watering. Mist stem every 2–3 days.
5. Watch spine bases: green = alive.
6. When leaves appear (1–2 months), roots forming.
7. Reduce misting. After 1 year, remove mound, stop water.

Why Mound?

Encourages rooting at buried nodes; improves stability; mimics natural layering.

Critical

• Mark south side; replant same orientation.
• Heavy arm – two people: one hold, one cut.

High success rate with this method.