Multiply your succulents – for free!

What you'll need

• A healthy succulent plant

• A clean, sharp knife or scissors

• A small pot with well-draining soil

• Patience and a bit of sunshine

Choose a healthy leaf or stem

Start by selecting a healthy leaf or stem from your succulent. Look for a plump, firm leaf or a stem with a few leaves on it. Avoid any leaves that are damaged or discoloured.

Cut or twist

Gently twist the leaf off the stem, making sure to get a clean break. If you're using a stem, use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut it off. It's important to let the cut end dry out and callous over for a few days to prevent rot.

Let it dry

Place the leaf or stem cutting in a dry, shaded area for a few days. This allows the cut end to form a callous, which helps prevent rot when you plant it.

Plant

Once the cut end has calloused, place it on top of well-draining soil. You don't need to bury the leaf or stem; just lay it on the soil surface. If you're using a stem cutting, you can plant it upright in the soil.

Don’t over water

Succulents don't need a lot of water, especially when they're just starting to grow roots. Lightly mist the soil with water every few days but be careful not to overwater. Too much moisture can cause the cutting to rot.

Bright, indirect light

Place your pot in a bright area with indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can be too harsh for new cuttings and may cause them to dry out too quickly.

Wait for the roots to grow

This is where patience comes in! It can take a few weeks for roots to start growing. You'll know your cutting has rooted when you see new growth or when it feels firmly anchored in the soil.

Transplant and enjoy

Once your new succulent has established roots and started to grow, you can transplant it into its own pot or leave it where it is. Continue to care for it as you would any other succulent, with occasional watering and plenty of light.

Try propagating different types of succulents to see which methods work best for you.

Propagating succulents is a delightful way to expand your plant collection and share the joy of gardening with friends and family. Happy planting!

How to create a succulent bowl