How to Start Again

Did you know that even succulents grow calluses?

When cut or broken, at first, a succulent’s “leaf” will appear moist and vulnerable where it has snapped. Showing the water it has stored within to the outside world.

Then, just like a feverishly writing or guitar-playing finger–or a wound–the place where it was broken will begin to scab and callous over. Preserving within the water the succulent so intelligently knows how to store.

“The broken leaves may begin to wither, but do not be alarmed if you see this as this happens because the leaf cuttings become food for the emerging new plants.” – theurbansprout.com

But I bet you didn’t know that that broken leaf can still grow.

First, for a while, it just needs to be left alone. We all need to dry out sometimes.

Then, the proper combination of water and soil–the right environment to nurture a lone sprig back to health.

Most important for propagating your succulent is your pot, or container. The Urban Sprout notes that there needs to be “enough room in the container for roots to grow.” If you’re feeling especially optimistic, you may want to choose a larger container than your last, allowing for the possibility for an even larger, healthier plant.

After all, who knows where that callus might lead?