Growing succulents from cuttings is an easy and affordable way to propagate new plants. Succulents are plants that store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, such as cacti, aloe vera, jade plants, and sedums. They are relatively easy to care for and make great houseplants. Succulents can be propagated from cuttings by cutting off a leaf or stem and allowing it to root in soil. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to grow succulents from cuttings.
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What you’ll need
To grow succulents from cuttings, you’ll need:
- A healthy mother plant – Choose a mature, established succulent that is actively growing.
- Clean, sharp scissors or knife – For taking cuttings.
- Cutting – A healthy leaf, stem, or offshoot from the mother plant.
- Rooting hormone (optional) – Can help stimulate root growth.
- Well-draining potting mix – A cactus/succulent soil or mix of sand and perlite.
- Containers – Small pots or trays to hold the cuttings.
- Spray bottle – To mist the cuttings.
- Bright, warm location – For rooting the cuttings.
Choosing where to take cuttings
When choosing where to take cuttings from the mother plant, look for healthy leaves and stems. Avoid diseased or insect-damaged sections. The best places to take cuttings include:
- The tips of stems that are actively growing.
- Rosette leaves growing close to the center.
- Offset shoots from the base of the plant.
Leaves that are lower down on a stem often root better than leaves from the tips. Look for leaves that are fully formed and not curled or damaged.
Taking leaf cuttings
For leaf cuttings, gently twist and pull downwards on the leaves until they snap off. Try to keep some of the stem attached to the leaf. The stem contains vessels that can help provide water and nutrients while the leaf is rooting. Avoid cutting leaves – this can inhibit root growth.
Taking stem cuttings
When taking a stem cutting, use clean, sharp scissors or a knife to make a clean cut. Cut just below a node, which is the part of the stem where a leaf attaches. The node contains a growth point which will produce the new roots. Angle the cut slightly to increase the surface area for roots to emerge.
Take 3-6 inch (7.5-15 cm) sections of stem. The cutting should contain 2-3 nodes. Remove any flowers or flower buds from the stem cutting.
Preparing the cuttings
Before potting up the cuttings, optional steps include:
- Letting cut ends callous over: Letting the cut end dry out or “callous over” for a few days protects it from rotting after potting. Lay cuttings in a dry, shady spot for 2-7 days before potting up.
- Applying rooting hormone: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Tap off any excess.
- Removing lower leaves: Gently pluck off the lower leaves from stem cuttings. This redirects the plant’s energy towards root growth instead of sustaining the leaves.
Planting the cuttings
Once your cuttings are prepped, you’re ready to pot them up. Follow these tips when planting:
- Use a well-draining cactus/succulent potting mix. You can make your own by mixing equal parts potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite or pumice.
- Fill small containers or trays with the potting mix. Terra cotta pots work well.
- Make a hole in the soil with a pencil. Gently place the cutting in the hole. Firm the soil around it.
- Leaf cuttings can be placed on top of the soil. Gently press the stem end into the soil.
- Space multiple cuttings 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) apart.
- Label each cutting.
- Water lightly until moist using a spray bottle. Allow excess moisture to drain away.
Caring for the cuttings
Rooting succulent cuttings requires the right mix of moisture, temperature, and light. Follow these tips for success:
- Keep the cuttings out of direct sunlight while rooting. Bright, indirect light is best.
- Maintain a temperature around 70°F (21°C) for optimal root growth.
- Pour out any water pooled in the containers. Keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Spray leaves every 2-3 days with water to prevent shriveling.
- Once roots form in 2-6 weeks, gently tug on cuttings to check for resistance before transplanting.
- Harden off rooted cuttings by slowly introducing them to sunlight and outdoor conditions.
Common problems
Here are some common issues you may encounter and how to fix them when rooting succulent cuttings:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Rotting stem | Use sterile scissors, allow cut end to callous, and avoid overwatering. |
| Shriveled, dropping leaves | Increase watering frequency and mist leaves. |
| No root growth | Increase light exposure, warmth, and air circulation. |
Transplanting into soil
Once your succulent cuttings have developed a root system, they are ready to be transplanted into pots with soil. Follow these tips when transplanting rooted cuttings:
- Select a container with drainage holes that is 2-4 inches wider than the root ball.
- Use cactus/succulent soil or make a well-draining mix.
- Carefully remove cutting from tray, keeping root ball intact.
- Place root ball in container so the old soil is just above the new soil.
- Fill in around root ball with soil, firming gently.
- Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom.
- Put in a sunny location and care for as a mature plant.
With the right conditions, your succulent cuttings should quickly establish as standalone plants ready for display anywhere in your home!
Conclusion
Growing succulents from cuttings is an easy, rewarding way to expand your collection. By taking cuttings from a mother plant and rooting them in soil under the right conditions, new propagated plants develop. Follow basic steps like taking healthy cuttings, preparing them for rooting, providing plenty of bright light, and careful watering for the best results. In just weeks, you’ll have brand new succulents to enjoy around your home or give as gifts to fellow plant lovers.