Ice plants (Delosperma) are succulent perennials known for their low-growing, mat-forming habit and abundant, vibrant, daisy-like flowers. These plants are often used as groundcovers, in rock gardens, or for cascading over walls, adding a burst of color to various landscapes. Propagating ice plants allows gardeners to easily expand their collection, fill in bare spots, or share these beautiful, drought-tolerant plants with others, while being a cost-effective way to enhance a garden.
When to Propagate Ice Plant
The most suitable time to propagate ice plants is during spring or early summer. This period aligns with the plant’s active growth phase. Warmer temperatures and increased daylight hours promote vigorous growth and root development, increasing the chances of new plants thriving.
Propagating Ice Plant from Cuttings
Propagating ice plants from stem cuttings is an effective method. Select healthy, non-flowering stems from the parent plant. Cuttings should be about 2 to 6 inches long, taken from the tips of the stems. Use a sharp, clean knife or pruners to ensure a clean cut and minimize damage.
After taking the cuttings, remove any leaves from the lower 1 to 2 inches of the stem to prevent rotting when planted. Allowing the cut end to dry and form a callus for a day or two can help prevent rot, especially for succulents. Dipping the cut end into a rooting hormone powder can encourage root development, though ice plants often root readily without it.
Prepare a well-draining potting mix, such as one formulated for succulents or a blend of potting soil, sand, and perlite. This sandy, gritty medium prevents waterlogging, which can cause rot. Plant the prepared cuttings about 0.5 to 1 inch deep into the moist potting mix, ensuring the exposed nodes (where leaves were removed) are buried, as roots emerge from these points. You can plant multiple cuttings in one container, spacing them appropriately.
Propagating Ice Plant by Division
Division is another effective method, suited for mature, spreading ice plant clumps that have outgrown their space or need revitalization. This process involves splitting an established plant into smaller, independent sections. Dig up the entire ice plant clump, minimizing damage to the root system. Moistening the soil beforehand can make this process easier.
Once the plant is out of the ground, separate the clump into smaller sections. Each new section should have a healthy portion of both roots and foliage. A sharp spade or knife can be used to divide the plant, making clean cuts through the root ball. Replant these divisions immediately into their new locations at the same depth they were previously growing. After replanting, water the newly divided sections to settle the soil around the roots.
Aftercare for New Ice Plant Propagations
Once ice plant cuttings or divisions are planted, proper aftercare is important for successful establishment. For newly planted cuttings, water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue for succulents and can lead to rot. The goal is to keep the soil lightly moist, not soggy.
Initially, place new propagations in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Once they show signs of new growth, gradually introduce them to more direct sunlight. Ice plants thrive in full sun once established. Protect young plants from harsh weather conditions like frost or intense sun until they are established.
Signs of successful rooting for cuttings include new leaf development or resistance when tugged. For divisions, new growth on the foliage indicates successful establishment. Once new plants are well-rooted and actively growing, after a few weeks to a couple of months, they can be transplanted to their permanent outdoor location.