Hoya kerrii, also known as the Sweetheart Plant or Valentine Hoya, can indeed be grown in water. Propagating Hoya kerrii in water is a popular method because it is relatively easy and often yields successful results.
To start propagating your Hoya kerrii in water, you will need to take a stem cutting from your existing plant. Choose a healthy stem that is around 4-6 inches in length. This length is important because it ensures that you have at least one node on the stem. Nodes are essential for root formation.
Before taking the cutting, make sure to sterilize your cutting tool with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of any potential diseases. You want to ensure a clean and healthy start for your new cutting.
Once you have your stem cutting, remove any leaves from the lower portion of the stem, leaving only a few leaves at the top. This will allow the cutting to focus its energy on root development rather than maintaining a large leaf surface.
Next, fill a clean glass or jar with water. Make sure the water is room temperature or slightly warm. Avoid using water straight from the tap as it may contain chlorine or other chemicals that can be harmful to the cutting. If you are concerned about the water quality, you can let it sit uncovered for 24 hours to allow any chlorine to evaporate.
Place the stem cutting into the water, making sure that the bottom node is fully submerged. The node is where the roots will develop. You can use a small weight or a pebble to hold the cutting in place if necessary.
Choose a location for your water propagation setup that receives bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight as this can cause the water to heat up and potentially harm the cutting. A windowsill or a spot near a bright window is usually ideal.
Now, all you need to do is be patient and wait for the roots to develop. In a few weeks to a couple of months, you should start to see roots growing from the node into the water. It is important to change the water regularly, about every week or so, to prevent stagnation and the growth of harmful bacteria.
Once the roots have grown to a sufficient length, you can transplant your Hoya kerrii into a well-draining potting mix. Gently remove the cutting from the water and plant it in a small pot filled with a suitable potting mix for succulents or cacti. Ensure that the soil is slightly damp but not overly wet.
Place the potted cutting in a location that receives bright, indirect light. Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Hoya kerrii prefers slightly drier conditions, so overwatering can be detrimental to its health.
With proper care, your Hoya kerrii cutting should continue to grow into a beautiful, heart-shaped succulent vine. It’s important to note that while Hoya kerrii can be propagated in water, it may take longer for the plant to establish itself compared to propagating in soil. However, with patience and care, you can successfully grow Hoya kerrii in water and enjoy its unique and charming heart-shaped leaves.
