Succulents survive prolonged periods of drought by storing water in leaves, stems, or roots. When retaining water, their stems or roots become thick and fleshy. Most succulents prefer dry conditions and grow well in containers. They come in various shapes and colors and propagate easily through leaf cuttings.
1. Collect leaf cuttings when the plant is actively growing in the spring or summer. Choose a healthy plant with no damage or disease to take the cuttings. Select healthy leaves without blemishes. Remove the leaves from the plant, breaking them or cutting them off with a knife at the point where the leaf connects with the stem. Place the leaves on a piece of paper, and set them in a dark, dry, well-ventilated room for one to two days to allow them to dry and form callus tissue over the cut end.
2. Choose a container for the leaf cuttings. Select a container with drainage holes in the bottom and at least 4 inches (10 cm) deep. Consider containers in colors and shapes that accentuate the chosen variety of succulents and the space in which they will be growing.
3. Mix one part potting soil, two parts vermiculite, and two parts perlite to create a well-draining growing medium. Fill the container with the mixture, tamping it down firmly. Leave an inch (2.5 cm) space between the soil surface and the top of the container. Water the soil with a watering can two to three times to ensure it is evenly moist.
4. Dip the cut ends of the leaves in the rooting hormone. Push the cut ends down into the soil until one-third of the leaf is buried. Tap the soil down around the bottom of the leaves to stabilize them.
5. Place the container in an area with a temperature of 65°F (18°C) or warmer. Choose a location with bright indirect sunlight. Water the leaf cuttings only when the top one-fourth of the soil becomes dry. Mist the cuttings once per day with a spray bottle to increase humidity. Watch for new growth to appear four to six weeks after planting, signaling the plant has established roots.
Source: sfgate.com
Links
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus