Propagation

Succulent plants can be propagated vegetatively (cuttings, division or offsets) or from seed. The method for growing them from seed is the same as for other plants.

Unlike other plants, it is essential to allow the wound formed when you take a cutting to dry (for a few days for small specimens and up to a few weeks for larger ones) before potting up the cutting. This will allow the wound to callous over properly. You can also sprinkle the wound with charcoal powder to promote scarring. Once the cuttings are ready, pot them up in a slightly moist mixture of 1 part finely ground peat moss, 1 part perlite and 2 parts coarse sand, for instance. Some species may benefit from the use of rooting powder, but it is not essential. The planted cuttings require a minimum temperature of 16°C, out of direct sunlight. Hold back on watering until roots have formed—this may take a few weeks to a few months, or even up to a year for large specimens. You can tell when a plant has rooted because it will resume its growth.