How to Propagate Succulents

To propagate succulents, you can use both leaves and stems, with leaf propagation being a common and easy method. Here’s a general guide: first, select healthy, mature leaves or stems, then allow them to dry and callous over for a few days to prevent rotting. Next, place the calloused cuttings in well-draining soil, mist them lightly, and provide bright, indirect light.

Leaf Propagation:

1. Gather Materials: Choose healthy, mature leaves from a succulent plant, ensuring a clean break where the leaf detaches from the stem.
2. Allow Callusing: Place the detached leaves in a dry, shaded area for a day or two to allow the cut ends to callus.
3. Prepare the Medium: Use well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix, or a combination of potting soil with perlite or sand.
4. Plant the Leaves: Gently place the callused end of the leaf into the soil, burying it about half an inch.
5. Water Sparingly: Mist the leaves lightly every few days to keep the soil slightly moist.
6. Provide Light: Place the leaves in bright, indirect sunlight.
7. Monitor and Transfer: Once roots develop and new baby plants start growing, carefully transfer the rooted leaves to individual pots.

Stem Propagation:

1. Gather Materials: Take a cutting from a healthy succulent stem using sharp scissors or shears, ensuring a clean cut.
2. Allow Callusing: Let the cut end of the stem dry out and callus for a day or two.
3. Prepare the Medium: Use well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix.
4. Plant the Stem: Gently insert the callused end of the stem into the soil, burying a portion of the stem below the surface.
5. Water Sparingly: Wait a day or two before watering and ensure the soil is well-drained.
6. Provide Light: Place the stem in bright, indirect sunlight.
7. Monitor and Transfer: Once roots develop, the new plant is ready to be transferred to a separate pot.