Propagation of two epiphytic Cactaceae for relocation to an urban protected area of the Atlantic Forest in São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract The relocation of epiphytes contributes to biodiversity conservation. In this sense, studies that aim to promote the success of the process are necessary. Therefore, the objective of this work was to analyze the effects of initial fresh mass and fertilization on the propagation of two species of Rhipsalis, thus ensuring their success after relocation to a protected area. Therefore, fertilized and unfertilized plants of Rhipsalis puniceodiscus and Rhipsalis trigona initially with one or two cladodes were propagated in a greenhouse for 25 months. After relocation to a forest area, their survival was monitored for 16 months. Survival percentage, shoot length and root length were analyzed every four months. Fresh mass, dry mass and photosynthetic pigment were analyzed before relocating to a native forest. During the protected propagation stage, for both species, individuals presenting more branches and those that were fertilized exhibited more intense overall development. The propagation of R. puniceodiscus and R. trigona in a greenhouse with two cladodes is better than with one cladode. In general, R. puniceodiscus displayed better development under controlled conditions than R. trigona. Propagation using fertilization increased fresh mass and favors growth and survival rate of R. puniceodiscus and R. trigona. It is possible to relocate both species to a preserved area of the Atlantic Forest, but R. trigona presented more potential.