Succulents are popular plants, known for their unique shapes, colors, and low requirements. However, sometimes succulents can lose their roots due to a variety of reasons such as overwatering, damage during pot changing, or disease. Fortunately, succulents can reroot and come back to life. In this article, we will discuss the steps on how to successfully re-root succulents.
Evaluate succulents
Determine the root cause
Before attempting to re-root succulents, it is important to determine the cause of root loss. Common causes include over-watering, which can lead to root rot; Physical damage during basin change or handling; Pests or mid-root diseases; Or just old. Knowing the cause can help you take the appropriate steps to prevent this from happening again in the future.
check the health of the plant
Examine succulents to assess their overall health. Look carefully for the base of damaged leaves, stems, or crown. Check the base for any pests or diseases. If a succulent has suffered severe damage or shows extensive rot at the base, it may be difficult or even impossible to re-establish roots. However, if the plant is still relatively healthy with some intact leaves and stems, there is a good chance of successful re-rooting.
Tools and materials required
Sharp knife or pruning scissors
A sharp knife or pruning shears are essential to snip away any damaged or rotting parts of the succulent. Make sure the tools are clean and sharp to ensure clean cuts and minimize damage to the plants.
Rooting hormone (optional)
Rooting can always help stimulate root growth and increase the chances of successful re-rooting. While not necessary, it is especially useful for succulents that are slow to take root or plants with severely damaged roots.
Well-drained potting mix
Succulents need well-drained potting mix to prevent standing water and root rot. A mixture specifically designed for succulents or a combination of potting soil, perlite, and sand can work well.
Small basin or container
Choose small POTS or containers with drainage holes for growing succulents. The size is suitable for the size of the plant to achieve good air circulation and root growth.
Spray bottle
A spray bottle filled with water can be used to spray the succulents with water during the re-rooting process to keep them hydrated without over-watering.
Prepare succulents to re-establish roots
First, remove the damaged part
Using a sharp knife or pruning shears, carefully cut away any damaged, rotten, or discolored parts of the succulent plant. Perform clean cuts to promote treatment and prevent the spread of disease. If the stem is mushy or soft, cut it off until firm, healthy tissue is achieved.
Let the cuttings dry
After cutting the succulents, let the cuttings dry for a few days to a week. This allows the incision to develop callus, which helps prevent rot during implantation. Keep cuttings in a warm, dry place out of direct sunlight. You can place them on a paper towel or mesh screen to ensure air circulation.
A way to re-establish roots
Soil method
Prepare potting mix Fill a small pot or container with a well-drained potting mix. Moisten the mixture slightly with water, but not too wet.
Place calloused cuttings gently into the potting mix, making sure they are not buried too deeply. The cut end should be in contact with soil. If desired, you can grow multiple cuttings in the same pot.
After watering and caring for the plant, spray the cuttings with water from a spray bottle. Avoid over-watering, which can lead to rot. Place the pot in a bright, indirectly lit area, keeping the soil slightly moist but not moist. As the cuttings begin to take root, you can gradually increase the amount of watering.
Water law
Prepare a container and pour the water into a clean container. You can use a glass jar, plastic cup, or any other container deep enough to hold the cuttings.
Place the calloused cuttings gently in the water, making sure the cut is submerged. Avoid immersing the leaves in water, which can cause them to rot.
Change the water every few days to keep the water fresh and oxygen-rich. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Once the cuttings have grown roots about 1-2 inches long, carefully remove them from the water and plant them in a well-drained potting mix using the soil method described above.
Care for re-established succulents
Light
Place re-rooted succulents in bright indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, as this can burn the leaves. As the plant grows, you can gradually increase the amount of sunlight it receives.
Water
Water re-established succulents in moderation. Allow the soil to dry completely between each watering to prevent overwatering and root rot. Occasionally spray the plants with a spray bottle to provide some humidity.
Temperature and humidity
Succulents prefer mild, low-humidity conditions. Keep the plant in a place where the temperature is between 60-80°F (15-27°C). Avoid placing it in areas with sharp temperature fluctuations or high humidity, as this can cause problems.
Fertilization
Once the succulents have grown new roots and are growing well, you can apply a small amount of fertilizer using a balanced fertilizer formulated specifically for succulents. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to determine the amount and frequency of fertilizer application.
Monitoring and patience
Check the root growth
Regularly check that re-rooted succulents have roots for root growth. Pull the plant gently and feel for resistance, which indicates that the succulents are growing. You can also carefully remove the plants from the soil or container to check the roots, but be careful not to damage them.
Patience is key
Re-rooting succulents can take time, and it can take weeks or even months for the plant to fully establish new roots and start growing again. Be patient during this time and continue to provide appropriate care. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results.
Troubleshooting
Rot
If you find rotted plants, such as mushy stems or blackened roots, take immediate action on the part and dry the plant. If necessary, retransplant it into fresh, dry potting mix. Make sure to improve drainage and avoid over-watering in the future.
No roots
If the succulents do not show any consistent root growth within a reasonable amount of time, check the conditions. Make sure it receives enough roots, doesn’t overwater, and is located in a warm enough place. If you haven’t already, you can also try rooting.
Third, diseases and pests
Focus on pests and diseases, such as whiteflies, lice, or fungal infections. Treat any infestation immediately with appropriate insecticides or fungicides. Isolate outlying plants to prevent the spread of pests or diseases to other plants.
Conclusion
Succulents that re-establish roots again can be a beneficial method for abandoned or distressed plants. By following the steps outlined in this article and providing proper care, you can have a chance of successfully rerooting and enjoying a healthy, thriving succulent plant. Remember to be patient, observant and attentive to the needs of the plant throughout the regeneration process.
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