Succulent Pups: A Guide for Beginners
Succulent growers often become very attached to their plants. The unusual forms and colors of succulents intrigue many people, leading them to start collections. If you’re new to growing succulents and want to expand your collection, consider starting with succulent pups.
What Are Succulent Pups?
Succulent pups are small, genetically identical plants that grow on mature succulent plants. They are also known as offsets or babies. Pups are a great way to propagate succulents, as they are easy to care for and grow quickly.
How to Identify Succulent Pups
Succulent pups can be identified by their small size and their close proximity to the mother plant. They will often have the same shape and color as the mother plant. Some pups may even have small roots growing from them.
What to Do with Succulent Pups
Once you have identified succulent pups, you can either leave them attached to the mother plant or remove and replant them individually. If you leave them attached, they will eventually grow into new, full-sized succulents. However, if you want to propagate new plants, you can remove the pups and replant them in their own pots.
How to Remove and Replant Succulent Pups
To remove a succulent pup, use a sharp, clean knife or scissors to cut the pup away from the mother plant. Be sure to make a clean cut, as this will help prevent the pup from getting infected. Once the pup is removed, you can let the cut end callous for a few days before planting it in a new pot.
To plant a succulent pup, fill a pot with well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. Make a small hole in the potting mix and place the pup in the hole. Gently firm the potting mix around the pup and water it lightly.
Caring for Succulent Pups
Succulent pups are easy to care for. They require bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Water the pups when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Fertilize the pups monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
With proper care, succulent pups will quickly grow into healthy, full-sized succulents.
Additional Tips for Propagating Succulent Pups
- Remove pups when they are about the size of a quarter. This will give them the best chance of survival when you replant them.
- If the pups are growing in a crowded pot, you can repot the entire clump. This will give the pups more room to grow.
- You can also propagate succulents from leaves. Simply remove a leaf from the mother plant and place it in a pot of well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist and the leaf will eventually develop roots and grow into a new plant.
With a little care and attention, you can easily propagate succulents from pups. This is a great way to expand your succulent collection and share your love of succulents with others.
