Succulents are hardy and easy-to-care-for plants that come in a variety of shapes and colors. They’re perfect for decorating any space and can be found in gardens, terraces, balconies, indoors, and outdoors. Plus, one of the best things about succulents is that they’re very easy to propagate, which means you can multiply your favorite plants without spending a lot of money.
Before you begin, you need to know the different methods of propagating succulents. The most common methods are:
- Leaf propagation: This method is ideal for succulents with fleshy leaves like echeverias, sedums, and graptoverias. Basically, you need to remove a leaf from the mother plant and let it
dry for one or two days until it grows some roots. Then, place the leaf on moist soil and wait for
the roots and new leaves to appear. - Stem cutting propagation: This method is ideal for succulents with thick, sturdy stems like cacti and succulents. Basically, you need to cut a piece of stem from the mother plant and let it dry for one or two days. Then, place the cutting on moist soil and wait for the roots and new leaves to appear.
- Division propagation: This method is ideal for succulents that grow in clumps like aloes and agaves. Basically, you need to separate the offsets from the mother plant and plant them in moist soil.
Once you’ve chosen the appropriate propagation method for your succulent, it’s time to get started. Follow these steps:
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Prepare the substrate: Succulents need a well-draining substrate to prevent waterlogging and root rot. You can use a commercial cactus/succulent mix or make your own by mixing potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand in a 3:1 ratio.
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Water the substrate: Water the substrate lightly to make it slightly moist but not saturated.
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Take the cutting or leaf: Carefully remove the cutting or leaf from the mother plant, making sure to avoid damaging the stem or root.
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Let it dry: Place the cutting or leaf on a dry surface in a warm and bright place for one or two days to let it callus. This will prevent the cutting or leaf from rotting when planted.
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Plant the cutting or leaf: Once the cutting or leaf has callused, plant it in the substrate. For leaf propagation, bury the base of the leaf in the soil, leaving the tip above the surface. For stem cutting propagation, bury the cut end of the stem in the soil, leaving the top part above the surface.
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Water sparingly: Water the cutting or leaf sparingly, making sure not to overwater. Succulents are adapted to arid conditions and can rot if they’re exposed to too much moisture.
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Wait for growth: Place the planted cutting or leaf in a warm and bright place and wait for the roots and new leaves to appear. This may take several weeks to several months depending on the succulent species.Let it dry: Place the cutting or leaf on a dry surface in a warm and bright place for one or two days to let it callus and grows some roots. This will prevent the cutting or leaf from rotting when planted.
