Propagating Succulents
Are you wanting to expand your succulent garden but don’t know how or where to start? You can become a confident gardener using different propagation methods and have the best looking garden on the block! Propagating is a method used in horticulture where different parts of the parent stock are used to produce more plants. I know it may sound a bit intense and maybe time consuming, but if you follow these simple propagation methods you’ll get the hang of it in no time.
Plantlet Removal
Plantlet removal is one of the easiest ways to propagate your succulent. Plantlets are grown on their own around the base or on the parent stock, so all you need to do is safely remove the plantlet. When removing your plantlets, make sure to include their roots. This means that you will want to make sure that your plantlet is completely rooted before removing. You can use a sharp knife or carefully twist the plantlet out. Some plantlets will need to be left out before putting into soil, while others may need to be potted right away, this depends on your plant.
Leaf Cuttings
Another easy propagation method is by using leaf cuttings. When using this method pick a healthy leaf from the parent stock. You can either twist a leaf off or you can use a sterile knife to cut a leaf. It’s important to remember to leave the nodes at the base of the leaf, this way it can grow healthy roots. After the removal, place the leaf cuttings out in a dry area with indirect light and allow the end to callous completely. To be sure that it is ready to plant you can feel the end of the cutting to be sure it is dry and smooth, if not then it is not completely calloused. Now take the leaf cutting and place them in moist soil, and be sure to spray at the base regularly to keep the plant from drying out. You can stop spraying when the roots have formed.
Stem Cuttings
Propagating from stem cuttings is another great technique. This method is best for plants with longer stems. When cutting the stem use a sterile knife and cut just beneath the last layer of healthy leaves. You will need to leave these cuttings in a dry area with indirect light so that they can completely callous over. Place the cuttings in moist soil and spray the base regularly until the roots have formed.
If you follow these simple propagation methods, you will have a beautiful succulent collection without spending a fortune! Be sure to try different methods and figure out what works best for you.
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