Rootless Succulent Cuttings: How - To

Hey, succulent lovers! As your succulents grow more and more lush at home, do you want to propagate more new plants and create your own succulent garden? Rootless cuttings are a great method that requires no complicated tools or professional knowledge and can be easily done at home! Today, we will teach you step by step how to make succulent leaves and stems re-root and sprout, and start your “succulent family” expansion plan! 

What is rootless propagation? Unlocking the regenerative superpowers of succulents 

Rootless propagation of succulent plants essentially leverages their robust regenerative capabilities to enable detached leaves or stems to regrow roots and develop into new plants. Whether it’s a plump, fleshy leaf or a sturdy stem, either can serve as an ideal candidate for propagation. Common succulent varieties like Echeveria Onslow and Pachyphytum Baby Fingers have extremely high propagation success rates, making them ideal for beginners to try. 

Preparation: These materials and tools are essential 

First, gather the necessary materials and tools for propagation. You will need sharp gardening shears for trimming stems; a clean tray or shallow pot as a “temporary bed” for placing leaves; well-draining succulent-specific soil for subsequent potting; and some fungicide powder to disinfect wounds and prevent infection. 

Key steps: From trimming to drying, details determine success or failure 

Next comes the critical propagation step. If using leaf cuttings, gently pinch the base of the leaf, shake it left and right, and carefully remove the leaf intact, taking care not to damage the growth point, which is the key area for rooting and sprouting. Place the detached leaf in a cool, well-ventilated area to dry for 1–2 days, allowing the wound to heal completely to prevent rot. If using stem cuttings, use garden shears to cut the stem 2–3 centimeters from a healthy part of the parent plant, and also place it in a cool area to dry for 2–3 days until the wound is dry. 

Official Cutting: Different Methods, Different Techniques 

Once the wounds have dried, you can proceed with the propagation process. For leaf propagation, place the leaves flat on a prepared tray or shallow pot with the leaf surface facing upward, and place them in a well-ventilated area with indirect light, such as near a window indoors but not exposed to direct sunlight. Sprinkle a small amount of water every few days to maintain air humidity, and wait patiently. After 1–2 weeks, you will be pleasantly surprised to see white roots and tender green shoots emerging from the base of the leaf. For stem cuttings, insert the dried stem into slightly moist succulent soil to a depth of about 1–2 centimeters, and place it in a well-ventilated area with indirect light for care. 

Care guidelines: Be patient and wait for roots and shoots to emerge 

Patience is key during the waiting period for rooting and sprouting. Avoid moving the cuttings frequently and do not overwater, as excessive moisture can cause rot. Once the leaves develop visible roots, the new shoots reach a certain size, or the stem sprouts new roots and begins to grow, you can transplant them into individual pots for regular care. 
Propagating succulent plants not only allows you to grow new plants but is also a lot of fun! Watching the tiny leaves and stems gradually develop roots and sprout brings a great sense of accomplishment.