The Flat Graft is extremely simular to the split graft but even easier. Flat grafting can be used to propagate most types of cacti, including brightly colored neon cacti, and mutant cristate. To perform a successful graft, the stock must have a simiular diameter to that of the intended scion. Before performing the graft, make sure all materials and equipment clean, and take caution not to make contact (touch) either of the cut surfaces because they are extemely vulnerable to infection by fungle disease until graft unites. Also all water-storing and central transport tissue, or core, must be in contact for the graft to be successful.

Step 1: With a clean, sharp knife, cut horizontally throught the stock. Make sure you cut about 1 in (2.5 cm) below the growing point. Remove the top. Check that some central tissue is clearly exposed: if not, slice off another thin portion of the stock until the core is visible.

Step 2: After you have removed the top of the stock, bevel the edges of the cut, removing one fourth in (6 mm) of skin from all around the stock. This prevents the hard skin from holding the scion off the stock when the fleshy stock tissue shrinks after grafting.

Step 3: Now it is time to select the scion. When you have selected the scion, cut through scion at the base. Bevel one fourth in (6 mm) of skin from around the cut edge of the scion. Place the cut surfaces of the scion and stock together so that their central core tissues touch.

Step 4: Now you should have the stock and the scion united somewhat (not firmly yet). Firmly rotate the scion on the stock to remove any air pockets. Secure the stock and scion in position with a pair of rubber bands. Place the grafted plant in a bright airy situation (but not in full un) at a minumum temperature of 50 F (10 C). If the graft is successful, the scion and stock should unite in about two weeks. Then begin to feed and water as normal. One there a signs of growth (in about four weeks) remove the rubberbands.