Are you finding that the number of succulents you have at home is growing? Looking at those chubby little ones, do you want to propagate some yourself? Don't worry, today I'll teach you how to easily propagate succulents and expand your succulent family!
I. Choosing the Right "Seeds"
First, you need to select the right "seeds" from your succulent treasures. This isn't a random pick; you must choose healthy, plump leaves or stems that are free from pests and diseases. For leaves, choose those that are fleshy and full of sap. For stems, they should be robust and disease-free, of course!
II. Preparing the "Soil"
For propagating succulents, soil is key. You need to prepare soil that is breathable and has good drainage. There are many specialized succulent soils available on the market, or you can mix your own using perlite, vermiculite, and peat moss in a certain ratio. Don't forget, you can add a bit of bone meal or slow-release fertilizer to the soil to help the new succulents grow stronger.
III. "Planting" the Cuttings
1. Leaf Propagation: Gently pluck the selected leaf from the mother plant, being careful not to damage any part of it. Place the leaf in a cool, ventilated area to let the wound dry for about 2-3 days. After it's dry, you can either place the leaf flat on the soil surface or slightly tilt it so that part of the petiole is buried in the soil. Remember, the soil should be kept slightly moist.
2. Stem Propagation: Select a healthy stem and cut it off quickly with a small knife, trying to leave as many leaves as possible. After cutting, it also needs to be placed in a cool, ventilated area to dry the wound for about 3-5 days. Once dry, insert the stem into the soil, but not too deep, to avoid affecting root growth.
3. Root Propagation: For some succulents, like those of the Haworthia family or tuberous plants, roots can also be used for propagation. As long as the roots are healthy and plump, they can be planted directly.
IV. Tender "Care"1. Watering: After planting, keep the soil slightly moist, but avoid waterlogging. After the first watering, wait until the soil surface turns white and the moisture in the topsoil has evaporated before watering again. Each time you water, do it thoroughly until water seeps out from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.
2. Light: Succulents need indirect light in the initial stages of propagation, avoiding direct sunlight. Once the new succulents have rooted and sprouted, you can gradually increase their exposure to light.
3. Ventilation: Maintaining a well-ventilated environment helps the new succulents grow healthily.
V. Patiently Waiting for the "Harvest"When propagating succulents, patience is key. Generally, leaf-cut succulents will root in about 7-10 days and grow new leaves in 20-30 days. Stem and root cuttings may take a bit longer. When you see the new succulents rooting, sprouting, and growing new leaves, doesn't it feel incredibly rewarding?
VI. Precautions1. Avoid Pests and Diseases: During the propagation process, be mindful of pests and diseases. If you find any, deal with them promptly.
2. Avoid Overwatering: Succulents are not tolerant of waterlogging, and overwatering can lead to root rot.
3. Choose the Right Time: Spring and autumn are the best seasons for propagating succulents, as the temperature is suitable and the survival rate is higher.
4. Be patient: Propagating succulents requires patience; don't rush the process.Now, have you learned how to propagate succulents? Go and give it a try. I'm sure your succulent family will grow bigger and bigger!