Can You Root Succulent Plants in Water?

Succulent plants are one of the most popular types of plants due to their beautiful appearance and low maintenance requirements. One question that many people have when it comes to succulent propagation is whether they can root succulent plants in water. The answer is both yes and no, and it depends on the type of succulent and the conditions in which you can provide for growth.

The Types of Succulents that Can Root in Water

While there are different types of succulent plants, not all can be propagated in water. Succulent plants that have thicker and fleshy leaves can root well in water. Plants such as jade, aloe vera, and snake plant can be propagated in water. These plants have a thicker cuticle that helps to retain water in their leaves and stems, which will make it easier for the plant to survive in water.

The Process of Rooting Succulent Plants in Water

The process of rooting succulent plants in water is quite easy. Follow the below steps:

Choose a healthy leaf from the mature plant and make a clean cut with a sharp knife or scissors.

Place the leaf in water in such a way that only the bottom inch of the leaf is submerged.

Place the jar or container with the leaf in a bright and warm spot in your house, but avoid direct sunlight.

Change the water every two to three days to prevent the growth of bacteria.

After two to three weeks, roots will start growing from the bottom of the leaf. Wait for another week or two for these roots to develop further.

The propagated plant can then be potted in soil.

Why Water Propagation is Not Ideal for All Succulent Plants

Succulent plants that can root in water still prefer soil as their growing medium. Water propagation is often used for rescuing or salvaging a succulent if its roots have already begun to deteriorate.

In addition, some types of succulent plants, particularly those with thinner leaves, such as Echeveria and Haworthia, are better propagated through methods such as stem cuttings or leaf propagation in soil. The succulent plants that have thinner leaves can't retain water for as long as those with a thicker cuticle. Because of this, rooting in water could lead to the plant's rotting before it can establish the roots needed for future growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you can root some succulent plants in water, such as jade, aloe vera, and snake plant, but it's not the most suitable or reliable propagation method for all succulent plants. While it may be a viable way of saving a succulent that is struggling, it's best to use other methods for healthier and more established growth for the majority of succulent plants.