Aeonium ‘Sunburst’ is a popular succulent cherished for its vibrant, variegated rosettes of green, yellow, and pink. Propagating it allows gardeners to create new plants from an existing specimen, expanding their collection or sharing with others. This guide details successful propagation through cuttings.
Ideal Conditions for Propagation
The most favorable time for propagating Aeonium ‘Sunburst’ is during its active growing season, typically in the cooler months of spring and autumn. Unlike many succulents that thrive in summer heat, Aeoniums enter a dormant phase in hot, dry conditions, making propagation during this period less successful and increasing the risk of rot.
Before beginning, gather the necessary tools. A sharp, clean knife or pruning shears are essential for precise cuts. Sterilizing your cutting tool with rubbing alcohol helps prevent the introduction of pathogens. Prepare a well-draining potting mix, ideally formulated for succulents or cacti, often including perlite or grit. A terracotta pot with drainage holes is also beneficial as it allows excess moisture to evaporate.
Step-by-Step Cutting Propagation
Begin by selecting a healthy, firm, and unblemished stem from your mature Aeonium ‘Sunburst’ plant, ideally with a rosette at its tip. The ideal length for a cutting ranges from 4 to 6 inches.
Using your sterilized sharp tool, make a clean cut just below a leaf node. This reduces the risk of rot. Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving two to three leaves near the top of the rosette.
Allow the fresh cut end of the stem to dry and form a protective callus. This prevents moisture from entering the stem, which can cause rot. Place the cutting in a cool, dry, shaded area with good air circulation for two to three days, or until the cut end feels dry and slightly hardened.
Once the cutting has callused, insert the dried end into your prepared well-draining succulent potting mix. Bury the stem about 1 to 2 inches deep, as new roots will grow from this section. Gently firm the soil around the base to stabilize the cutting.
Caring for New Cuttings
After planting, place the pot in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sun can scorch the unrooted cutting before it has established a root system. Maintaining a temperature range between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for rooting.
Newly planted Aeonium cuttings do not require much water initially. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can easily lead to root rot. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Roots typically begin to form within two to four weeks, though this can vary. Check for rooting by gently tugging on the cutting; if it offers resistance, roots have likely developed. Once roots are established, the plant will show signs of new growth.
Ensuring Propagation Success
To maximize success, always prioritize sanitation by using clean, sterilized tools. This prevents fungal or bacterial infections. Regularly inspect your parent plant for pests before taking cuttings to ensure healthy material.
If a cutting does not root, it might be due to excessive moisture, incorrect timing, or unhealthy parent plant material. Should a cutting fail and show signs of rot, such as a mushy stem, remove any affected parts and allow the healthy portion to callus again before replanting. Providing adequate light without direct harsh sun exposure is also important to prevent stress.