If you’re a succulent enthusiast, you understand the joy of propagating new plants from existing ones. Not only is it a cost-effective way to grow your collection, but it’s also a fun and rewarding process. In this guide, we’ll discuss the best succulents to propagate from cuttings and provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow new plants from your existing ones.
What are cuttings?
Cuttings are pieces of a plant that have been removed and replanted to create a new plant. With succulents, the best time to take cuttings is during their active growing season (typically spring and summer) when they are producing new growth. There are two common types of cuttings for succulents:
– Leaf cuttings: these cuttings are taken from the leaves of the plant.
– Stem cuttings: these cuttings are taken from the stem of the plant.
The Best Succulents to Propagate from Cuttings
1. Echeveria
Echeveria is a popular succulent that is often used in container gardens and arrangements. These plants have a rosette shape with fleshy leaves that come in a variety of colors. Echeverias are easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting from a healthy plant, let the cut end callus over for a day or two, then plant it in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until the cutting establishes roots.
2. Sedum
Sedums are a diverse group of succulents that come in many shapes and sizes. They are known for their small star-shaped flowers and fleshy leaves. Sedums are easy to propagate from both leaf and stem cuttings. Simply plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water sparingly until roots start to form.
3. Crassula
Crassulas are a group of succulents that come in many shapes and sizes. They are known for their fleshy leaves and clusters of small flowers. Crassulas are easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting and let the cut end callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until roots start to form.
4. Kalanchoe
Kalanchoes are another popular succulent that is often used in container gardens and arrangements. They have colorful blooms and fleshy leaves that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Kalanchoes are easy to propagate from both leaf and stem cuttings. Simply plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water sparingly until roots start to form.
Concluding Thoughts on Propagating Succulents from Cuttings
Propagating succulents from cuttings is a fun and rewarding way to grow your collection. With a little patience and care, you can turn one healthy plant into many. Remember to always use well-draining soil, water sparingly, and choose healthy plants to take cuttings from.
FAQs about Propagating Succulents from Cuttings
1. Can I propagate succulents from leaf cuttings?
Yes, many succulents can be propagated from leaf cuttings. Simply remove a healthy leaf from the plant and place it on top of well-draining soil. Water sparingly until roots start to form.
2. How long does it take for a cutting to root?
It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for a cutting to root. Be patient and avoid overwatering during this time.
3. Can I propagate succulents from seeds?
Yes, succulents can be propagated from seeds, but it’s a more challenging process than propagating from cuttings. It can take several years for the plant to mature and start producing new growth.
