If you’re anything like me, succulents have a way of sneaking into your heart (and your home). There’s something about their chubby leaves, vibrant colours, and low-maintenance charm that makes them irresistible. But what if I told you that you don’t have to wait until spring to grow more? Yes, you can absolutely propagate succulents in the winter, and I promise, it’s not as intimidating as it sounds.
When I first tried propagating succulents during winter, I was sceptical. I mean, everything in the garden world slows down in the colder months, right? But to my surprise, it worked beautifully – with a little extra patience and a few adjustments. Let me share my favourite tips to help you grow your succulent collection this winter.
1. Start with Healthy Leaves or Cuttings
One of the first mistakes I made was trying to propagate leaves that were already looking a bit worse for wear. Spoiler alert: they didn’t make it. Healthy, plump leaves or cuttings are essential for successful propagation.
What I Do
When removing a leaf, I make sure to gently twist it off the stem, ensuring I get the entire base. For stem cuttings, I use clean, sharp scissors to make a nice, clean cut. It might feel like you’re hurting your plant, but trust me, succulents are tough and will bounce back.
2. Let the Cuttings Callus Over
Here’s a crucial step I learned the hard way: don’t rush. In winter, everything takes a little longer, and that includes letting your cuttings callus over. This step prevents rot, which can be more common in the cooler, damper air of winter.
My Routine
After taking cuttings, I leave them in a dry, well-ventilated spot for 3–5 days (sometimes longer if it’s particularly cold). When the cut edge feels dry and slightly hardened, they’re ready for the next step.
3. Use the Right Soil
I used to think any old soil would do, but succulent propagation really depends on using the right mix. Standard potting soil tends to hold too much moisture, which is a big no-no in winter when evaporation is slower.
My Go-To Mix
I use a well-draining cactus or succulent soil mix, sometimes adding extra sand or perlite to improve drainage. It keeps the cuttings dry and happy, reducing the risk of rot.
4. Skip the Watering (For Now)
This tip felt counterintuitive at first. I mean, plants need water to grow, right? But with succulents, especially during winter, too much water is a surefire way to kill your propagation attempts.
My Approach
After planting the callused cuttings in soil, I wait a solid week before watering them – sometimes even two. Once I do start watering, I use a light misting method, being careful not to soak the soil. Patience really pays off here.
5. Keep Them Warm (But Not Hot)
Succulents love warmth, but in winter, it can be tricky to provide the right environment without overdoing it. I learned this after leaving my cuttings near a radiator one year – they dried out completely before they had a chance to root. Lesson learned.
My Setup
I place my propagations in a bright, warm spot away from direct heat sources like radiators or heaters. A windowsill with indirect sunlight works perfectly. If your home gets quite chilly, a small heat mat under the tray can help maintain a consistent temperature.
6. Be Patient – Growth Takes Time in Winter
This was the hardest lesson for me. Propagating succulents in winter isn’t as quick as it is in spring or summer. Growth slows down, and it can take weeks (sometimes months) for roots to develop. I can’t tell you how many times I hovered over my propagations, wondering if they were doing anything at all.
The Key
Patience is everything. Resist the urge to poke at the cuttings or overwater them. Check on them every couple of weeks, and you’ll eventually notice tiny roots or even new leaves forming. It’s like a little winter miracle.
7. Don’t Forget About Light
Winter days can be grey and short, and succulents still need light to thrive, even during propagation. I learned this after a batch of cuttings became leggy and pale from lack of light – they were reaching for something I wasn’t providing.
My Solution
If you have a sunny windowsill, great! Place your cuttings there and rotate them every few days for even exposure. If natural light is scarce (hello, UK winters), consider using a grow light. I bought a small, inexpensive LED grow light, and it made a world of difference.
Why Propagate Succulents in Winter?
You might be wondering, “Why bother propagating in winter? Why not just wait until spring?” For me, it’s the perfect way to bring a bit of life and greenery into the colder months. Watching tiny roots form and new leaves emerge feels like a little victory against the winter blues. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying to know you’re creating new plants for free – and who doesn’t love that?
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever hesitated to propagate succulents in winter, I say go for it. With a bit of patience and care, you can absolutely grow new plants during the colder months. And let me tell you, there’s something so rewarding about seeing those little cuttings come to life when everything else outside is dormant.
Give it a try – you might just find that winter propagation becomes one of your favourite gardening activities. Who says the growing season has to end with the first frost? Your succulents certainly don’t think so!