Growing succulents by harvesting the leaves is a satisfying project for novice green thumbs.
These low-maintenance plants store water in the leaves, stems and roots, making them a good choice for dry areas and shallow, wide containers that can hold a number of plants.

The succulent family includes cactus, agave, yucca, echeveria and aloe. Most have waxy, hairy or spiny leaves and stems that reduce water loss, an important trait for survival in their native homes of South Africa and South America.

MAINTAINING GOOD HEALTH
Water the leaf cuttings every two days. When they start forming roots don’t be concerned if the leaves shrivel because the new plants are living off energy stored in the leaves.

INDOOR Drench plants and allow the soil to dry out between watering. The preferred growing medium is a light, fast-draining potting mix.
OUTDOOR Most succulents enjoy full sun to light shade. Some change colour in the sun and with the seasons. Brown, scabby spots mean the plants are getting too much sun but aloes naturally turn orange in full sun.

Break leaves off mature succulents for propagating and create numerous new plants in a month.

Take a mature succulent from a pot or garden, discarding the dry and dead leaves at the base of the healthy leaves by pulling them away from the stem.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Remove some healthy leaves by gently pulling downwards before putting the mature plant back into fresh potting mix. Put the leaves on a board for a week to dry.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Plant the leaves in a moist succulent mix and position in a warm spot. New plants form at the base of
each leaf in a few weeks and can be potted or planted in the garden.