The Burro’s Tail succulent, also known as Sedum morganianum, is a charming and popular plant with its long, trailing stems covered in plump, bead-like leaves. Propagating this lovely succulent can be a rewarding experience. Here’s a detailed guide on how to propagate Burro’s Tail succulent.
Understanding the Burro’s Tail Succulent
Appearance and Characteristics: The Burro’s Tail succulent has long, pendulous stems that can reach several feet in length. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and a beautiful green color. They are densely packed along the stems, giving the plant a unique and attractive look.
Growth Habits: This succulent is a slow-growing plant that prefers bright indirect light and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in arid conditions. Burro’s Tail is also known for its ability to tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Benefits of Growing: Apart from its aesthetic appeal, the Burro’s Tail succulent has several benefits. It is easy to care for, making it an ideal plant for beginners. It also helps purify the air and can add a touch of greenery to any space.
Propagation Methods
Leaf Cuttings
Selecting Healthy Leaves: Choose leaves that are plump, firm, and free from damage or disease. Gently twist or cut a leaf from the stem, making sure to include a small portion of the stem if possible.
Preparing the Cuttings: Allow the cuttings to dry for a few days in a cool, dry place. This will help the cut end to callus over and prevent rotting.
Planting the Cuttings: Fill a small pot with well-draining succulent soil. Make a small hole in the soil and insert the cut end of the leaf cutting. Gently press the soil around the cutting to secure it in place.
Caring for the Cuttings: Place the pot in a bright, indirect light location. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the cuttings. Keep the soil slightly moist but not wet. After a few weeks, new roots and tiny leaves will start to emerge.
Stem Cuttings
Taking Stem Cuttings: Using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears, cut a section of the stem that is at least a few inches long. Make sure the cutting has several leaves attached.
Treating the Cuttings: Remove the lower leaves from the stem cutting, leaving only a few at the top. Allow the cut end to dry and callus over as you did with leaf cuttings.
Planting the Cuttings: Prepare a pot with succulent soil as before. Insert the stem cutting into the soil, making sure that at least a portion of the stem is buried. Gently firm the soil around the cutting.
Caring for the Stem Cuttings: Place the pot in a bright location with indirect light. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. In a few weeks, new roots will start to grow, and the plant will begin to establish itself.
Division
Assessing the Parent Plant: Look for a mature Burro’s Tail plant that has become overcrowded or has multiple stems growing from a single base. This is a good candidate for division.
Gently Removing the Plant from its Pot: Carefully tip the pot and gently remove the plant. Shake off excess soil, being careful not to damage the roots.
Dividing the Plant: Using your hands or a sharp knife, separate the plant into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and several stems and leaves.
Planting the Divided Sections: Prepare individual pots with succulent soil and plant each divided section. Water lightly and place the pots in a bright, indirect light location. As the plants settle in, they will start to grow and thrive.
Preparation and Materials
Pots and Containers: Choose small pots or containers with drainage holes to ensure proper drainage. Terra cotta pots are a good choice as they allow the soil to breathe.
Succulent Soil: Use a well-draining succulent soil mix. You can purchase pre-mixed succulent soil or make your own by combining equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and sand.
Tools: Have a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears, a small trowel or spoon for planting, and a spray bottle for watering.
Care and Maintenance During Propagation
Light Requirements: Burro’s Tail succulents prefer bright indirect light. Place the pots in a location where they will receive several hours of filtered sunlight each day. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.
Watering: Water sparingly during the propagation process. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot. Use a spray bottle to mist the soil lightly if it appears to be drying out too quickly.
Temperature and Humidity: These succulents can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they prefer temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). Avoid exposing them to extreme cold or heat. They also do well in low humidity environments.
Fertilization: During the propagation stage, it is not necessary to fertilize the plants. Wait until they have established themselves and are growing actively before considering fertilization.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Rotting Cuttings or Plants: If you notice that your cuttings or plants are rotting, it is likely due to overwatering or poor drainage. Remove the affected parts and allow the remaining plant to dry out. Make sure to improve drainage by using a well-draining soil mix and pots with drainage holes.
Slow Growth or No Growth: If your cuttings or divided plants are not growing, it could be due to insufficient light, too much or too little water, or improper temperature. Check the growing conditions and make adjustments as needed.
Pests and Diseases: Burro’s Tail succulents are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can sometimes be affected by mealybugs or spider mites. Inspect your plants regularly and treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Transplanting and Potting On
When to Transplant: Once your propagated plants have grown and filled their pots, it is time to transplant them into larger containers. This is usually after several months of growth.
Preparing the New Pots: Choose pots that are one size larger than the current ones. Fill the pots with fresh succulent soil and make a small hole in the center.
Transplanting the Plants: Gently remove the plants from their old pots and place them in the new pots. Fill in the gaps with soil and firm it gently around the roots. Water lightly after transplanting.
Long-Term Care of Burro’s Tail Succulents
Watering: Continue to water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In the summer months, you may need to water more frequently, but be careful not to overwater.
Light: Provide bright indirect light. If possible, rotate the pots periodically to ensure even growth.
Fertilization: You can fertilize your Burro’s Tail succulents once or twice a year during the growing season with a balanced succulent fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper application.
Pruning: As the plant grows, it may become leggy or overcrowded. You can trim back the stems to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts.
