The String of Tears plant (Senecio herreianus) is a distinctive succulent prized for its cascading stems dotted with plump, tear-shaped foliage. Propagation is a straightforward process, allowing growers to increase their collection or revitalize a mother plant that may have developed thin or damaged strands. Multiplying this plant is an excellent way to ensure a full, lush presentation in a hanging basket.
Essential Preparation and Timing
The optimal time for propagation is during the growing season, specifically spring and early summer, when the plant is actively producing new growth. Before taking cuttings, gather all necessary materials. You will need a pair of sharp, clean scissors or a razor blade, as a precise cut minimizes trauma to the stem. Prepare the potting medium using a well-draining succulent or cactus mix, often containing amendments like perlite or pumice to enhance aeration. Withhold watering the mother plant for a few days before cutting; this encourages the succulent to focus energy on wound healing.
Step-by-Step Soil Contact Propagation
The soil contact method, often called the “coiling” or “pinning” technique, is the most reliable way to propagate String of Tears cuttings because it maximizes the contact points for root formation. Begin by selecting healthy, vigorous strands at least four to six inches in length from the mother plant. Use your sanitized cutting tool to make a clean snip just above a leaf node, which is a site of potential new growth.
After taking the cutting, set the strands aside in a dry, shaded place for one to two days to allow the cut end to form a protective scab, known as a callous. This crucial step seals the wound, preventing bacteria and fungal pathogens from causing rot when the cutting is placed in the growing medium. Once calloused, the cuttings are ready to be placed on the surface of the prepared soil.
Coil the long strands gently onto the soil surface of a shallow pot, ensuring that the tear-shaped leaves remain largely above the soil line. The nodes—the small bumps along the stem where the leaves emerge—must be in firm contact with the soil, as this is where the adventitious roots will sprout. To ensure this contact, secure the coiled strands using small floral pins or bent paper clips pushed into the soil.
Place the pot in a location that receives bright, indirect light, avoiding intense midday sun that could scorch the cuttings. Do not water the soil fully at this stage. Instead, use a spray bottle to mist the soil surface lightly every few days, keeping the top layer barely moist. Maintaining consistent surface moisture encourages the nodes to develop roots without saturating the entire pot and inviting rot.
Transitioning to Independent Growth
Root development typically takes between two to four weeks. The first indication of successful rooting is the emergence of tiny, white roots from the pinned nodes, which anchor the strand to the soil. Another sign is the appearance of new vines or growth points along the coiled stem. Once new growth is observed, perform a gentle tug test; a slight resistance confirms that roots have taken hold.
This milestone signals the time to transition the new plant to a standard succulent watering routine. Gradually shift from misting to a deep, thorough watering method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Continue to provide bright, indirect light, which fuels strong, compact growth. Shriveled “tears” indicates dehydration and requires deep watering, while mushy, discolored stems are a sign of overwatering and potential rot.