Root nodes are the small, purplish bumps on the sides of the stem next to the leaves. Giving yourself a root node will speed up the propagation process.

Always use distilled or filtered water, as straight tap water can have chlorine in it that could harm your cutting. Using a glass jar lets you keep an eye on the root growth. While you can replace the water if it looks dirty or cloudy, it’s not strictly necessary. [3] X Trustworthy Source Missouri Botanical Garden Oldest botanical garden in the U. S. and center for botanical research and science education Go to source

Getting a root node isn’t 100% necessary, but it will give your cutting a better chance of success.

Not letting your cutting dry out before planting could lead to root rot. After your cutting is dry, you can dip it in a rooting hormone if you’d like to. Rooting hormone isn’t totally necessary, but it does give your cutting a higher chance of developing strong roots.

Look for a mixture that’s about 50% sand and 50% peat moss or compost. Using potting soil that’s too dense can lead to root rot, which could kill your propagation.

Your cutting will start growing in about 1 month or so. Keep it in indirect light so it doesn’t burn. Give your cutting water every time the soil dries out (usually once a week or so).

Try placing them near a west-facing window to get sun without burning.

Not sure if the soil is dry yet? Stick your finger about 1 in (2. 5 cm) into the soil. If there is no dirt on your finger, then your soil is dry, and it needs to be watered. If there is dirt on your finger, your soil is still wet, and it doesn’t need to be watered.

Your plant likely won’t survive a frost, because succulents don’t do well in freezing temperatures.

Fertilizer isn’t totally necessary, but it’s a great boost for a plant that’s looking a little lackluster.

Mealybugs look white and cottony. They’ll often hang out on the underside of the plant near the soil.