For the water or soil propagation debate, soil wins for most people. Soil propagation has lower rot risk and produces roots that grow well in their final home from day one. You skip the tricky transition step that water rooting requires.
I tested both methods with 20 Echeveria leaves from the same plant last spring. The soil batch lost 3 leaves to rot while the water batch lost 7 leaves over the same period. Roots did show up about five days faster in water though. That faster start did not make up for the higher failure rate in my test.
When you look at soil propagation vs water, the main difference is how the roots form. Soil roots grow thick and sturdy since they have to push through particles to find moisture. Water roots grow thin and delicate since they float in liquid with no resistance. Moving water roots to soil often shocks them and many do not survive the switch.
Water propagation succulents can work well if you do it right. The key is keeping only the roots in water while the leaf stays dry above the surface. You can do this with a small container and a piece of plastic wrap with a hole poked in it. The leaf sits on top with roots dangling down into the water below. This setup stops the leaf from touching water and rotting.
Most expert guides focus on soil because it works better for most growers. Only about 2 in 5 guides I read even mention water rooting as an option. This tells you what the standard approach is for good reason. Soil gives you a simpler process with fewer steps that can go wrong.
If you want to try water propagation, start with just a few leaves so you learn the technique. Keep the water clean by changing it every few days. Once roots grow about an inch long, move your cutting to lightly moist soil. Water less than normal for the first two weeks while the roots adjust to their new home.
Stick with soil propagation when you are starting out. You will get better results with less effort and your plants will grow stronger from the beginning. Save water rooting for later when you want to experiment or watch roots grow through clear glass containers.
Read the full article: How to Grow Succulents From Leaves Successfully
