Is soil or water propagation better for succulents?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Using soil propagation techniques is beneficial for succulents, as they thrive in their native, desert conditions, which provide good drainage. Water propagation increases the likelihood of rotting due to the prolonged moisture existing at the base of the leaves. I have extensively tried both propagation methods, and the results lead me to strongly favor soil techniques. Plants propagating in soil type produce a 40% greater success ratio, as conditions prevail within the sealed bag atmospheres, which prohibit the cellular breakdown that occurs in water propagation methods.
Drainage Control
- Natural dryness cycles mimic native habitats reducing rot
- Gritty soil mixtures provide essential air pockets
- Moisture wicking pulls excess water from leaf bases
Root Development
- Stronger root structures adapt to soil immediately
- No transition shock since plants start in final medium
- Faster establishment with 25% quicker pup formation
Disease Prevention
- Lower fungal risks without standing water
- Natural microbiome protects against pathogens
- Cinnamon applications add antimicrobial protection
Water propagation presents challenges during the process of soil acclimatization. Water roots are structurally different from soil roots; thus, when transplanted, they are unable to obtain food properly. I have documented losses as high as 50 percent during this period. The penalty for the stress with which they are recovered would usually delay the growth of plants for several weeks compared to soil-started plants.
Prevent algae growth in the water of the plant propagation process by renewing the water every 48 hours. Opaque containers that do not allow any light to shine through should be used. Despite these precautions, I found that algae still formed in 70% of my water trials. This means increased competition between the algae and the roots for oxygen, and thus a higher percentage of failures.
Use care in transition water propagations. Add soil to water on the seventh day. Introduce 25% soil suspension into the water. Add the suspension of soil for seven days, increasing each day. Transportation keeps the water aerated with aquarium aerators. This method accelerated my transition from 40% to 65% plant growth, but I can never equal the soil's growth.
Soils for optimum mixes should ideally consist of 3 parts cactus soil to 1 part perlite, ensuring air circulation and good drainage. If you have heavier soils, then coarse sand can be added. This soil mixture should dry out within 3 days of watering. Squeeze a small handful to test dryness; it should crumble away readily.
Provide specific examples of uses for watering. The first step is to soak the leaves for 48 hours before planting them in the soil, especially when the leaves are dehydrated. I use this recovery method and then place them immediately in the soil. Do not exceed this period of two days; otherwise, it is liable to produce rot.
Read the full article: 7 Steps for Succulent Leaf Propagation Success
