Propagating Cactus and Succulents

ROOT STEM CUTTINGS of succulents by taking 3-inch segments, let dry for a few days, plant in sandy mix. mold, and 2 parts clean, coarse sand. You can also use commercial packaged mixes like vermiculite to start seeds. Whatever you use, don't pack the potting mix tightly into the container just gently firm it in place. Allow sufficient room at the top of the box or pot so there will be space for water. A simple rule to follow when sowing seeds is to bury them twice the depth of their own diameter. Large seeds can be set in place by hand; smaller, dust-like seeds (like those of crassula or cotyledon) should be sprinkled on the surface of the soil. Put the seed pans in a warm (78°), bright place without sun and cover them with plastic or a sheet of glass. Whenever the covering sweats, allow some air into the container. During the germination period, keep the temperature constant and the pots or flats out of drafts. The simplest, safest method to water seed pots is to set the pot in a pan of water and let water soak up into the potting soil. If you water from overhead be sure to use a very fine mist; otherwise, seeds will be disturbed and possibly washed from the container. The idea is to keep seeds evenly moist: Too much moisture and darkness brings on mildew; too little water and the plants will perish.