You can propagate sedums with leaf cuttings. This method of propagation is quite simple and can be a fun way to expand your collection of sedums or share them with friends and family.
To propagate sedums from leaf cuttings, you will need healthy and mature leaves from the sedum plant of your choice. Tender sedums such as Sedum rubrum, Sedum hintonii, Sedum morganianum, as well as the hardy herbaceous perennial Hylotelephium spectabile, can all be propagated using this method.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to propagating sedums from leaf cuttings:
1. Select a healthy and mature leaf from the sedum plant. Look for a leaf that is plump and free from any signs of disease or damage. It’s best to choose a leaf that is near the base of the plant as these tend to root more easily.
2. Carefully remove the leaf from the sedum plant. Gently twist or cut the leaf from the stem, making sure to keep the leaf intact. It’s important to avoid damaging the leaf or tearing it during this process.
3. Allow the leaf cutting to dry for a day or two. Place the leaf cutting on a clean surface or a paper towel and let it dry out. This step helps to prevent the cutting from rotting when it is planted.
4. Prepare a suitable potting mix. Sedums prefer well-draining soil, so it’s important to use a mix that provides good drainage. You can create a mix by combining equal parts of potting soil and perlite or sand. This will help to ensure that excess moisture doesn’t accumulate around the cutting.
5. Once the leaf cutting has dried, gently place it on top of the prepared potting mix. You can press the base of the leaf slightly into the soil, but be careful not to bury the entire leaf. The leaf should remain partially above the soil surface.
6. Mist the leaf cutting with water to provide some moisture. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to rotting. It’s important to keep the soil lightly moist but not soaking wet.
7. Place the pot in a bright location with indirect sunlight. It’s best to avoid direct sunlight as this can cause the leaf cutting to dry out too quickly. A windowsill or a well-lit area indoors is ideal.
8. Over time, the leaf cutting will begin to develop roots and eventually form new plantlets. This process can take a few weeks to a couple of months, so be patient. During this time, continue to mist the leaf cutting lightly to keep the soil moist.
9. Once the new plantlets have formed and developed a few leaves, they can be carefully separated from the original leaf cutting and potted up individually. Gently lift the plantlets from the soil, making sure to keep the roots intact. Plant them in small pots with well-draining soil and provide them with the same care as mature sedum plants.
Propagation success can vary depending on the specific sedum species and environmental conditions. It’s always a good idea to experiment with different techniques and observe what works best for you. Leaf cuttings can be a rewarding and inexpensive way to propagate sedums and expand your garden.
