How to propagate succulents
An introduction to the comprehensive knowledge of how to propagate succulents and the timing and methods of succulent cutting. Let's take a look!
Succulents come in many varieties and are loved by many gardening enthusiasts. When propagating succulents, leaf propagation can be used. Select thick, fleshy leaves, insert them into moist soil, and it's easy for them to take root and sprout, growing into new plants. Below is a detailed introduction to the leaf propagation method for succulents.
1. Propagation Timing
Leaf propagation of succulents is best done in spring and autumn, as the warm climate during these seasons is suitable for the leaves to sprout and take root after cutting. During the cold winter, cutting can be done in a warm indoor environment, which also has a high survival rate. In summer, succulents grow slowly, so it is not recommended to propagate by cutting.
2. Preparing Soil
Succulents prefer loose, fertile, and well-draining sandy soil. You can mix leaf mold, garden soil, perlite, and vermiculite in a ratio of 4:3:2:1 to create a propagation medium for succulents. Place the mixed soil in the sun for a few days, then spray it with a fungicide solution and continue to expose it to the sun for another 3 days to ensure the soil has enough time to kill germs.
3. Choosing Cuttings
Select healthy, disease-free, and fleshy leaves from robust succulent plants. Cut them from the bottom with a disinfected pair of scissors or gently pull them off by hand. Apply fungicide to the wound for disinfection, then soak in a rooting hormone for 5-10 minutes and place them in a well-ventilated, shaded area to dry.
4. Propagation
Choose a container of appropriate size, with breathable ceramic pots being the best. Place tiles at the bottom of the pot, fill it with growing soil, and smooth the surface. Place the succulent leaves flat on the soil, slightly covering them with soil. Mist the soil to keep it moist and place the pot in a shaded area. Maintain the temperature at 25-28°C and wait for 15-20 days for roots to form and the plant to survive, then transplant to a new pot for normal care and management.
5. Post-Propagation Care
Water every three days to keep the potting soil moist. Once the leaves have grown roots or seedlings after a week, cover them with plastic wrap for protection, removing it at night for ventilation and watering the succulents. Place them in a well-lit area indoors to facilitate photosynthesis, speed up root growth, and increase survival rates. Once the leaves have concentrated seedlings, you can remove the plastic wrap. After sprouting, mist the soil when it dries. Succulents propagated in spring can be potted for cultivation by autumn.
This article shares the experience and knowledge of how to propagate succulents and the timing and methods of succulent cutting. I hope this article can provide you with some help!