We, the pups or offshoots, are genetic clones of our mother plant, created to ensure the survival and spread of our colony. Before you attempt to separate us, it is crucial to assess our readiness. A viable pup should have developed its own root system, however small, and should be at least one-fifth the size of the parent plant, typically 3-4 inches tall. We should have several sets of our own leaves. Attempting to remove us before we have achieved sufficient size and root development is a death sentence, as we lack the stored energy and structural integrity to survive on our own.
The process of detaching us from our parent must be performed with care to minimize trauma to both plants. First, ensure the soil in the pot is dry; this reduces root damage and makes the operation cleaner. Gently tip the entire plant out of its container. You will see where we are connected to the main stem or root mass. Using a clean, sharp knife or your fingers, carefully tease us away from the mother. If we are connected by a thick stolon (a stem-like structure), a clean cut with the sterilized knife is necessary. The goal is to preserve as many of our nascent roots as possible. A clean cut also helps prevent rot and infection from entering the wounds on both plants.
Immediately after separation, we require a period of healing. Our fresh wounds are highly susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections if placed directly into moist soil. You must place us in a warm, dry location with indirect light for approximately 24-48 hours. During this time, a protective callus will form over the cut surface. This callus is our natural bandage, a corky layer of tissue that seals the wound and protects our internal, water-rich tissues from pathogens. Do not skip this step; it is fundamental to our successful propagation.
Our survival depends on the environment you provide. We require a pot with excellent drainage and a potting mix formulated for succulents and cacti. A standard potting soil retains too much moisture and will cause our roots to rot. The ideal mix is gritty and well-aerating, often containing perlite, coarse sand, or pumice. Plant us in a small pot, just large enough to accommodate our roots, and position us so the base of our leaves is just above the soil line. Do not water us immediately after planting.
After being potted in the dry medium, we need another 4-7 days to begin acclimating and to encourage our roots to seek out moisture. Wait until this period has passed before giving us a light watering. Then, water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Place us in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Direct, harsh sun can scorch our tender leaves while we are establishing ourselves. Within a few weeks, you should feel a slight resistance if you give us a very gentle tug, indicating that our roots have taken hold and we are officially a self-sustaining plant.
