In water, most succulents can be multiplied. If you have a succulent that is stretched out, you can take stem cuttings and root those, or you can create roots from healthy single leaves.
The most successful succulents are those with thick, meaty leaves, like the Echeveria plant. So when you first try your hand at succulent propagation, these are an excellent option.
It makes sense to multiply a few leaves at once. By doing this, you increase the likelihood that there will be survivors. While others may decay or just wilt and wither away, certain succulent leaves will only produce roots and no new plant.
results with leaf cuttings or with other plant species. Also, the stem cuttings I had sitting in water for five weeks were doing just fine and did not rot or die.
Understandably, the results would probably be different for others depending on the environment you are in. Just like with dirt propagation, some people have greater success than others depending on the climate, the type of plant, etc. I definitely would not disregard this method entirely and would recommend this for others to try, even just for fun, or for those who have had no luck with the ‘dry’ method.
As I have heard and read, a lot of people prefer this route because it is faster and they have better success than with dirt propagation. So if you are looking to experiment and try something new, or you’ve tried propagating again and again but have had zero luck, this is definitely worth a try. Please click on “4 Easy Ways to Propagate Succulents to find out about other succulent propagation methods.
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You’ve come to the correct location if, like me, you enjoy succulents. This website is a repository for the succulent-growing knowledge I’ve accumulated over the years and am still learning. Although I am by no means an expert on succulents and cacti, this website was created as a result of years of hard work, love, and many mistakes and learning opportunities.
Steps for propagating succulents in water: tips & tricks
Get cuttings and begin the roots process for your succulent plants in water by following these crucial procedures.
- Find a robust branch or growth on your succulent plant.
- Make a rapid, precise cut through the base of the desired stem with your pruning shears.
- Take the cut off portion away from the mother plant. It’s your turn to cut.
- If there are lower leaves on the succulent branch, remove them so that one to two inches of the stem are freed above the cut.
- Give cuttings a couple of days to calluse. This is a crucial piece of advice because without it, the cutting can hold too much water and rot rather than root.
- Place the cutting’s calloused end in a glass jar filled with purified water or rainfall, keeping the end just barely immersed.
- Use untreated tap water instead since chemical additions can prevent roots from growing.
- If the succulent cutting is really small, you can use plastic wrap to cover the jar or glass, poke holes in it, and insert the tiny stems to secure them in place.
- Put the water container in a location that receives a lot of diffused light. Use a clear glass container so you can keep an eye on the water’s clarity, water levels, and rooting.
- Wait for roots to form by placing the container in a bright area that is away from direct sunlight.
- To prevent algae growth and cloudiness, change the water every couple of days.
- After three to four weeks, when the roots begin to form, the plants should be transferred to a location with more direct sunshine. Some roots can take up to 6 weeks to sprout.
You can either keep growing your succulents in water or transplant them into soil and cultivate them indoors instead of transferring the rooted cuttings into a pot with soil mixture. Additionally, you can transplant your succulent to thrive outside in planters and gardens. The plant needs time to adapt to its planting environment if it is rooted in water and then moved to potting soil.
What happens when you move succulents from soil to water?
It is strongly advised to wait until the cutting has at least an inch-long root or the mother leaf has begun to dry up before leaving it to air-dry on a paper towel for approximately a day or two if you wish to transfer or transplant your succulents from water to soil. Remember that water roots are far more delicate than soil roots, so handle them carefully and acclimate them to soil gradually.
When the roots are completely dry, gently bury your succulent in unfertilized cactus soil and place it in a spot with only bright, indirect light. Giving your succulents direct sunlight at this time is not advised because they are still delicate.  
From this point on, it is advised to water your succulent on a regular basis. Every two weeks, a thorough soak would do.
Watch this video to learn about succulent water propagation:
Watch this little video to learn how to avoid four mistakes while cultivating succulents.
See some of the most frequently asked questions about propagating succulents and cacti in this little video.