It’s true – some succulents can indeed propagate during the colder months. I’ve seen leaves strike roots and even send out tiny babies when the temperature drops. It’s like they’re defying nature!
Why It’s Not Recommended
However, just because you can doesn’t mean you should. I’ve learned the hard way that winter propagation often leads to a lower success rate and much slower growth. Plus, you might end up losing more cuttings than you’d like.
Challenges of Winter Succulent Propagation
Species-Specific Difficulties
Not all succulents are created equal when it comes to winter propagation. Take the Xerosicyos danguyi (Silver Dollar Vine), for instance. I’ve tried propagating it in winter, and it usually just sits there, refusing to root unless I trick it with some artificial light.
The Chain of Hearts is another tricky customer. It’s super popular, but I’ve found that winter cuttings often die or stubbornly remain dormant until spring arrives.
Hardy Plants’ Winter Behavior
Even the tough guys like Sedum x rubrotinctum, Graptopetalum paraguayense (Ghosty), and various xSedeveria and Sedums can struggle. They might grow a bit, but at a snail’s pace compared to their usual vigor.
Unusual Growth Patterns
Here’s something weird I’ve noticed: sometimes, the roots will grow like crazy underground, but there’s no action above the soil. Come spring, I’ve ended up with rootbound plants that look tiny on top!
Accidental Winter Propagation
Salvaging Fallen Leaves
I hate wasting perfectly good leaves, so when I accidentally knock some off in winter, I still try to propagate them. My Pachyphytum compactum leaves are a perfect example – some sprout, others don’t. It’s a bit of a gamble.
Reduced Success Rates
With my Echeveria Blue Metal, I’ve seen a dramatic drop in success rates during winter. Some leaves only develop roots, and I’m lucky if even half of them make it. It’s a far cry from the near-perfect success I get in warmer months.
Timing and Climate Considerations
Ideal Propagation Seasons
In my experience, spring to mid-autumn is the sweet spot for most succulents. But remember, this can vary depending on where you live and your local climate.
Extended Propagation Periods in Warmer Climates
Living in a warmer area, I can sometimes stretch my propagation season from late winter (around August) to early May. It’s one of the perks of a milder climate!
Considerations for Colder Climates
If you’re in a colder region, be extra cautious about frost. I’ve heard from friends in chillier areas that indoor propagation with grow lights can be a good alternative.
Risks of Winter Propagation Techniques
Beheading Risks
Beheading succulents in winter is a risky business. I’ve lost both the top and bottom sections more than once. The dormant bottom often refuses to sprout new growth, which is frustrating.
Waiting for Spring
I’ve learned that patience pays off. Waiting for spring almost always results in better rooting and new growth for my succulents.
Conclusion: Why Spring Propagation is Preferable
Natural Growth Cycles
After years of experimenting, I’ve come to respect the natural dormancy periods of my succulents. Aligning propagation with their natural growing seasons just makes sense.
Maximizing Propagation Success
Spring and summer propagation consistently gives me higher success rates and faster growth. It’s hard to argue with those results!
Final Thoughts
While it’s possible to propagate succulents in winter, I’ve found it’s not ideal. The benefits of waiting for the growing season far outweigh any impatience I might feel. So, fellow succulent lovers, let’s give our plants their winter rest and get ready for a propagation frenzy come spring!