Story: Cacti and Succulent Propagations
Episode: 1
Presenter: Neville Passmore
Air Date: 14th September 2024

Neville’s succulent secrets revealed: Discover how leaf propagation, cuttings, seed sowing, and division can effortlessly and cost-effectively expand your diverse plant collection!

• Succulents are among the most intriguing plants, with around 50,000 different species known. Their diversity offers a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colours, making them a captivating choice for plant enthusiasts.
• Many succulents, such as those from the Kalanchoe family and the Velvet plant, can propagate from individual leaves. For instance, Mother of Millions plants, when their leaves touch the soil, can produce new baby plants along the edges of the leaves. Hanging these leaves in a humid environment can also lead to the formation of new plants in mid-air’s.
• Succulents like the Crested Elkhorn and the Crested Miniature Crown of Thorns can be effectively propagated from cuttings. It is advisable to allow the cuttings to dry for a few days to form a callus before planting. Use a propagation mix composed of 80% perlite and 20% cocopeat for optimal results, as this blend provides excellent drainage and aeration.
• Certain succulents, including the iconic Boab Tree from Western Australia, can be propagated from seeds. Due to their hard shells, it is useful to file them lightly and soak them overnight in warm water to soften them. The next day, plant the swollen seeds in a propagation mix with a thin layer of fine perlite on top to help retain moisture and support seedling growth.
• Propagation can also be done by dividing established succulents, such as Aloe. Gently pull the young offshoots away from the parent plant and replant them separately. This method is an easy and cost-effective way to expand your succulent collection and ensure a thriving garden.