Succulent Propagation With Cuttings

Type of Cutting

• Succulents grow from leaf cuttings but the method of taking the cutting depends on the plant. Succulents with long leaf blades and no leaf stem, called a petiole, grow from segments of the fleshy leaf. Plants with fleshy leaves attached to the main stem by a petiole grow from whole-leaf cuttings. Cutting leaf segments into 2- to 3-inch pieces provides a large enough cutting for propagation. Leaves with petioles need the leaf, petiole and a small section of the stem where the petiole attaches to the plant present to root successfully.

Rooting Environment

• Succulent cuttings need a moist but well-drained environment to produce roots. A 6-inch pot with a bottom drainage hole provides a suitable growing container for multiple cuttings. A well-drained, sterile mixture of equal parts peat and vermiculite holds enough moisture for rooting without becoming soggy or waterlogged. Cuttings don't require any fertilization during the rooting process.

Planting Cuttings

• While not necessary, a rooting hormone encourages the cutting to produce roots more quickly. The bottom cut end or the stem end of the cutting is coated in the hormone before planting. Cuttings don't require deep planting or lots of space to produce roots. Pushing the cut end into the potting mix deep enough to keep them upright is sufficient. Cuttings root and grow even when planted side-by-side, since they don't need a lot of root space until after new growth begins.

After Care

• Once planted, succulent plants root quickly and often begin showing signs of new growth in as little as two to four weeks. Too much moisture may cause succulent cuttings to rot, but the cuttings also need high humidity and some moisture. Watering the potting medium thoroughly after planting, then sealing the entire container in a clear plastic bag, creates a humid environment that requires no supplemental water during the rooting process. Once new growth appears, removal of the bag allows air circulation around the young plants.