How to Propagate String of Bananas Plant in Water

The String of Bananas plant, also known as Senecio radicans or Fishhooks, is a popular succulent with long, thin leaves that look like bananas. This plant is native to South Africa and is easy to grow, making it a great addition to any collection. One way to propagate the String of Bananas plant is through water propagation. Here's how:

Materials

To propagate the String of Bananas plant in water, you'll need the following materials:

A String of Bananas plant

Clean and sharp scissors or pruning shears

A clean vase or jar

Fresh water

Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have the necessary materials, let's get started on propagating your String of Bananas plant in water:

Begin by inspecting your String of Bananas plant for healthy stems with leaves. Select a stem that is long and healthy, with at least three sets of leaves.

Using your scissors or pruning shears, cut the stem from the mother plant at a 45-degree angle. This helps to prevent stem rot and allows for better water absorption.

Remove the bottom set of leaves from the stem. The two sets of leaves above the removed set will be submerged in the water, allowing for the roots to grow from the submerged nodes.

Fill your vase or jar with fresh water. Make sure the water level is not too high, as it should only cover the submerged nodes.

Place the stem with the two sets of leaves in the vase or jar and make sure the submerged nodes are covered with water.

Place the vase or jar in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the water to become too hot and damage the plant. Keep the water clean by changing it every few days.

After a few weeks, your String of Bananas plant should start to grow roots from the submerged nodes. Once the roots are about an inch long, you can transplant the stem into a new pot with soil.

Before transplanting, make sure to gently wash off any remaining water roots that formed in the vase or jar. This will make it easier for the plant to transition to soil.

Plant the stem in soil and give it a good watering. Place the plant in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight for a few days until it has fully acclimated to the new soil.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to help you successfully propagate your String of Bananas plant in water:

Use a clean vase or jar, as bacteria can grow in dirty containers and harm the plant.

Change the water every few days to prevent fungal growth and maintain fresh nutrients for the plant.

Make sure the submerged nodes are covered with water, but avoid overfilling the vase or jar, as this can cause the stems to rot.

Be patient! It can take a few weeks for the roots to grow and the plant to acclimate to its new environment.

With these tips and steps, you'll be able to successfully propagate your String of Bananas plant in water and add a new addition to your collection. Good luck!