Even for those without a green thumb, succulents are one of the easiest plants to care for and maintain. Whether planted indoors in pots or nestled amongst rocks in a low-water garden, these adorably plump species are hardy and resilient. Even better, you can save money by making more plant babies at home with a few simple techniques.
The great thing about succulents is their ability to reproduce from leaves and cuttings in a process is called propagation. While some varieties can only be propagated from the stem, many others will sprout new growth from leaves. Although it will take a bit of patience and care, using these techniques is an easy way to grow your succulent family. (1)
Growing Succulents From Leaves
For this method, you’ll simply want to take a fallen succulent leave or gently remove one from your plant. It’s important to cut the leaf at the base with a clean knife to avoid transferring bacteria to your leaf. You’ll want to let the leaves heal for a few days in a warm area with bright light–though not in direct sunlight. This will allow a “callous” to form over the wound where the leaf was cut. Once this has formed, it’s time to propagate.
Place your leaves on top of a pot or tray full of succulent or cactus potting soil. Keep them moist and warm, but again, not in direct sunlight as they may dry out. Mist them with water when the soil is dry, just a few times per week, and wait for the magic to happen. In a few weeks, you’ll start to see little sprouts come up from the leaves. Once the original leaf has dried out and died, the new succulents are ready to transplant. (2)
After gently removing the dead leaf, place the new baby succulent into its very own pot. As roots grow, they’ll need to be covered with soil to ensure they don’t dry out. You’ll still want to mist them with water occasionally as they’re still establishing their roots. (1)
Growing Succulents From Cuttings
Another method that works for more leggy succulents is propagating from a cutting. It’s best to make your cutting during its growth period, usually in the spring or winter months. You’ll again want to use a clean, sharp blade so as not to damage the plant. Choosing a short stem ensures active growth, and make sure to cut close to the parent plant.
After allowing a callous to form on your stem, you’ll want to replant it in a pot with plenty of light and not very much water. Alternatively, you can also cut the rosette at the top of a stem, leaving just a short piece to replant. The cutting on the parent plant will grow new leaves, as will the cut rosette. Again, make sure to minimally water the plant for a few weeks until roots take hold. (2)
While the growth of succulents can sometimes be slow, it’s amazing to watch their progress. By following these easy steps, you’ll soon be expanding your collection of plant babies into a whole brood.
