Methods of Propagation for Succulents
Succulents, with their unique shapes and easy-care characteristics, have become the favorite desktop greenery for city dwellers. Mastering the correct propagation methods not only extends the life of the plant but also offers the joy of nurturing new life. This article explains three mainstream propagation techniques, complemented with illustrations to assist in understanding the key points of operation.
One: Seed Sowing Propagation Method
1.1 Key Points for Seed Treatment
Use a special seedling tray, with a 3cm thick layer of volcanic rock at the bottom for drainage. Soak seeds in 40℃ warm water for 6 hours before sowing, which can increase the germination rate by 30%. The thickness of the covering soil should be controlled within twice the diameter of the seed, and a misting spray bottle should be used to avoid erosion when watering.
1.2 Management During Germination Period
Maintain a constant temperature of 25-28℃ after covering with film, and ventilate for 15 minutes each morning and evening. Use LED plant growth lights for 12 hours daily, and gradually increase light intensity after the first true leaf unfolds. Note that some varieties like Bear's Breeches die after flowering, so seeds should be harvested 20 days in advance.
Two: Cutting Propagation Technique
2.1 Leaf Cutting Operation Standards
Select healthy leaves from the middle and lower parts, and gently twist to remove the growing point completely with the flat-pull method. Dry in a scattered light environment, and applying sulfur powder to the cut can reduce the infection risk by 50%. Insert into a vermiculite substrate maintaining 60% humidity, and new roots can be seen after 25 days.
2.2 Points to Note for Stem Cutting
Select 1-year-old green stem segments for cacti, cut and invert to dry for 3 days to fully keratinize the cut. Use the hanging insertion method, keeping the cut 1cm from the substrate surface, and air-induced rooting can shorten the rooting period. Use a heating mat to maintain a base soil temperature of 18℃ during winter cutting.
Three: Division Propagation Steps
3.1 Judging the Timing for Division
Division can be performed when the group of succulents has a distinct crown and produces its own roots. The survival rate can reach 95% when done in spring and autumn, and should be postponed during the high-temperature summer months. For the Echeveria genus, reduce water by 10 days before division to soften the roots, reducing damage during separation.
3.2 Key Points for Planting and Care
Use a mixture of 70% granular soil and coconut bran as the substrate, and place the divided plants in a shaded area for 7 days to recover. For rootless basal buds, use the water-induced rooting method: suspend the base 1cm above the water surface, and roots will sprout in 3 weeks. Avoid fertilizing in the first month, and after new leaves unfold, apply a 2000 times diluted liquid fertilizer.
The three propagation methods each have their advantages: sowing is suitable for cultivating new varieties, cutting maintains the characteristics of the parent plant, and division is the fastest to take effect. It is recommended for beginners to start with leaf cutting, then try division after mastering the basics, and attempt sowing propagation when experienced. Choose the corresponding method for different seasons, such as division in spring, hydroponic cutting in summer, and sowing in autumn, which can significantly increase the success rate.