You can definitely cut a succulent stem and replant it. In fact, this is a common method of propagating succulents and is relatively easy to do. The first step is to choose a healthy succulent plant that you would like to propagate. Look for a stem that is long enough to anchor the cutting in the soil, but it doesn’t need to be too long.
Next, take a clean and sharp pair of scissors or gardening shears and make a clean cut just below a leaf or rosette. It’s important to make a clean cut to prevent any damage or infection to the plant. The top leaves or rosette should stand upright in the soil, so make sure the stem is cut at a length that will allow this.
After you have made the cut, you can let the cutting dry out and callous over for a day or two. This will help prevent the cutting from rotting when it is planted in the soil. Once the cut end has calloused, you can plant the cutting in well-draining soil. Succulents prefer soil that is gritty and well-draining, so make sure to use a succulent or cactus mix.
When planting the cutting, make a small hole in the soil with your finger and gently place the cut end of the stem into the hole. Gently press the soil around the cutting to secure it in place. It’s important to not bury the leaves or rosette in the soil, as this can cause them to rot.
Now, all you need to do is provide the newly planted cutting with the right care. Succulents prefer bright light, so place the pot in a location where it will receive plenty of sunlight. Water the cutting sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can cause the cutting to rot, so it’s better to underwater than overwater.
In time, the cutting will develop roots and start to grow into a new succulent plant. This process can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the type of succulent and environmental conditions. Be patient and provide the cutting with the care it needs, and you will soon have a new succulent plant.
It’s worth noting that not all succulents can be propagated by stem cuttings. Some succulents, such as those that form offsets or baby plants attached to the mother plant, can be easily propagated by waiting until the offsets are large enough to support themselves and then gently separating them from the mother plant. This is another simple and effective method of propagating succulents.
Cutting a succulent stem and replanting it can be a successful way to propagate new succulent plants. By following the steps mentioned above and providing the right care, you can easily grow new succulent plants from cuttings. Experiment with different types of succulents and enjoy the process of watching them grow and thrive.
