I'm trying to take care of a succulent that has grown a really long stem with just a head at the top. Can I repot it by burying the stem and only leaving the head above the soil? Is that a valid method? I've never successfully kept a plant alive before, and I've heard mixed advice about cutting the head off and replanting it. I'm just really confused about what to do without killing my plant!
2 Answers
Burying the stem like that isn't a good idea. It could lead to stem rot since the buried part will trap moisture and potentially invite bacteria. Instead, I'd suggest cutting off the head and propagating it. It might sound scary, but it's actually a common way to handle succulents like yours!
Yeah, it's good to let the cut end dry out for a day or two. You can even dust it with cinnamon or rooting powder to prevent rot and encourage roots to develop.
Don't fret! If you trim the head off, it usually does grow roots again, but be sure to let the cut end callous over for a bit first. I've done this with my succulents, and they came back stronger after a couple of weeks. Just place it in well-draining soil and keep an eye on it!
So if I cut the head off, can I just let it sit for a day before planting it? Will it grow roots back? I'm a bit worried about losing it!