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Want to grow a Desert Rose from cuttings?
It’s easier than you think!
With the right tactics, you can have a beautiful plant in no time.
Check out these 7 simple steps to get started.
Let’s grow some Desert Roses!
Pick the Perfect Cutting
Cutting selection is your first big step. Grab a healthy, green stem from a mature Desert Rose plant.
Aim for a cutting that’s about 6 inches long. Make sure it’s firm but not woody.
Clean cuts are crucial, so use a sharp, sterilized knife or scissors. This helps to avoid any unwanted infections.
Let the cutting dry for a day or two. Allowing it to callous over will help prevent rot when you plant it.
Prepare Your Potting Mix
Desert Roses love well-draining soil. A mix of sand, perlite, and a bit of potting soil works wonders.
You can also buy cactus or succulent soil if you want to keep it simple. Fill a small pot (with drainage holes, of course) with your mix, leaving some space at the top.
With the right soil, your cutting has a better chance to thrive and grow roots quickly.
Stick It in the Soil
It’s planting time! Stick the cut end of your Desert Rose cutting into the soil.
Bury it about 2 inches deep. Press the soil around the stem to keep it steady.
No need to water immediately; let it settle in the dry soil first. Watering too soon can lead to rotting, and nobody wants that!
Water Sparingly
Once your cutting is in the soil, give it a light misting. Don’t overdo it!
Desert Roses are drought-tolerant, and their roots rot easily if overwatered. After planting, wait a week or two before the next watering.
After that, water sparingly. Just keep the soil lightly moist, and your plant will thank you.
Provide Plenty of Sunlight
Desert Roses bask in sunlight. Place your pot in a sunny spot where it can get at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
If you’re growing it indoors, a south-facing window is perfect. More sun means more energy for root growth.
If you notice your plant reaching for the light, it might need a bit more sun.
Monitor Growth
Check on your cutting regularly. Look out for new growth, which is a clear sign that your cutting is rooting well.
Don’t be discouraged if it takes a while; some patience goes a long way. As new leaves and shoots appear, you can start a light feeding schedule with a balanced fertilizer every month.
Transplant if Needed
Once your Desert Rose shows solid growth and seems outgrowing its current pot, it’s time to move up a size. Transplant it into a bigger pot with the same well-draining soil.
This gives the roots more room to expand and helps your plant flourish. Just treat the move gently to avoid shocking your plant.