Succulents are drought-tolerant plants defined by their thickened, fleshy parts adapted to store water. Because of this adaptation, common advice suggests keeping them in well-draining soil and avoiding excess water. Growing succulents in water is effective for temporary propagation (rooting), but it is not recommended for permanent, long-term growth. Success depends on understanding the difference between temporary rooting and permanent hydroponics.
Water Rooting Versus Long-Term Growth
Water propagation involves placing a succulent cutting in water for a limited period to stimulate the growth of new roots. This temporary process is successful because the cutting avoids the pathogens and fungi that cause rot in wet soil. The water provides a clean, sterile environment that encourages the plant to quickly develop a root system.
Attempting to keep a succulent in water permanently, known as hydroculture, is challenging due to the plant’s specific evolutionary biology. Succulents require oxygen around their roots, which is difficult to maintain in a saturated environment. Prolonged submersion in stagnant water quickly leads to anaerobic conditions and root rot. While some hobbyists manage long-term growth, it requires constant maintenance, making it a high-risk practice for most species.
Step-by-Step Guide to Water Rooting Succulent Cuttings
The process begins by selecting a healthy stem cutting or a plump leaf from a mature succulent using a clean, sharp blade. If propagating a stem, remove the lower leaves to expose at least an inch or two of bare stem. This exposed area will sit near the water source, where the new roots will emerge.
The most important preparation step is allowing the cutting to develop a protective layer, called a callus, over the freshly cut wound. Set the cutting aside in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight for three to seven days until a dry skin forms. Skipping this callousing period increases the risk of decay, as the vulnerable plant tissue absorbs too much moisture before roots can form.
Once the cutting is calloused, set up the rooting vessel. Use a clear container to allow light to reach the forming roots and enable easy monitoring of the water level. Fill the vessel with distilled water, rainwater, or tap water left out for 24 to 48 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate. Suspend the cutting so the calloused end hovers just above the water’s surface, or barely touches it.
The goal is for the stem to sense the nearby moisture and be encouraged to grow roots downward, rather than having the entire stem submerged. Plastic wrap secured over the opening with a small hole can help hold the cutting in the correct position. Place the setup in a location that receives bright, indirect light, as direct sun can heat the water and damage emerging roots. Roots typically appear within two to six weeks, depending on the succulent variety and ambient temperature.
Caring for Water-Rooted Succulents and Transitioning to Soil
Once the new roots have grown to about one inch in length, the cutting is ready to be moved into a permanent growing medium. Roots grown in water (water roots) are structurally different from soil roots. Water roots are more brittle and specialized for absorbing nutrients from a liquid solution, making them poorly suited for the drier, oxygen-rich environment of potting mix.
Before planting, allow the newly formed roots to air-dry for a day or two to toughen them slightly and aid in the transition. Plant the cutting in a well-draining succulent or cactus soil mix, ensuring the pot has a drainage hole. Because water roots are adapted to constant moisture, the plant needs to be watered slightly more frequently than a mature succulent for the first few weeks.
The soil should be kept lightly damp, not saturated, for the first month. This prevents the fragile water roots from drying out immediately and encourages the plant to develop hardier soil roots. After this initial adjustment period, gradually reduce the watering frequency to a standard succulent schedule, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Requirements for Long-Term Hydroculture
If attempting long-term hydroculture, the water must be changed regularly, ideally weekly, to prevent stagnation and bacterial buildup. A specialized liquid fertilizer must also be added, as the water itself contains none of the nutrients required for sustained growth.