Leaf Cuttings

Some plants (mainly house plants) can be propagated from a whole or part of a leaf. According to individual varieties, leaf cuttings can be taken early in the growing season although some can be propagated throughout the year.

Part Leaf:

Step by Step:

Choose a healthy plant that has not been affected by pests or disease.
Fill a clean container with relevant potting media such as seed or cutting compost.
Choose a healthy and fully-grown leaf.
Cut your leaf in half along the midrib and discard the remnants.
Using a seed tray make a shallow insertion into the soil and gently place the leaf into place with the cut side facing down.
Firm into place and water well, taking care not to waterlog the soil.
Using a seed tray make a shallow trench and insert the leaf, cut side down and firm in.
Put your container into a plastic bag and tie up loosely with an elastic band or similar.
Keep in warm, dry and well-lit place out of direct sunlight.
Keep moist and repot when ready.

Whole-leaf:

Step by Step:

Cut the leaves with the stalk intact from the parent plant.
In clean pots, insert the base of each leaf.
Firm into place and water well, taking care not to waterlog the soil.
Using a seed tray make a shallow trench and insert the leaf, cut side down and firm in.
Put your container into a plastic bag and tie up loosely with an elastic band or similar.
Keep in warm, dry and well-lit place out of direct sunlight.
Keep moist and repot when ready.

Succulents:

Leaf cuttings of succulents should be left a day or two to thicken before potting.
Insert into pots filled to three-quarters depth with two parts cactus compost to one-part fine grit, topped off with fine grit.
Do not cover. Place in warm position and good light. Keep the compost just slightly moist.