There are several ways one can remove a leaf from a Haworthia plant in order to propagate it. The important thing one has to know before starting is that Haworthia cannot grow from a leaf that does not have a significant amount of stem tissue attached. This tissue contains meristematic cells, which are the cells responsible for new βorganβ (for example, stem or root) growth in plants. Without this, Haworthia propagation will not work, as the leaf will not grow roots. It will then be unable to produce any pups.
For all of these techniques, remove the plants from their soil and pots. Preferably give them a quick rinse to remove any dirt or soil. This helps prevent infection. After removing leaves, you can add cinnamon powder to the cuts on the plant to help prevent infection. Dry the leaves for at least 10 days before planting them to make sure they form a callus. You can add rooting hormone to the cut end of the leaf, but this isnβt a necessity.
Always test these techniques on plants that arenβt super important or sentimental to you. Once you have more experience, you can propagate your special plants.
A successful result from a propagated Haworthia leaf
Method 1 – Squeeze and pinch
We were introduced to this technique by the world famous Martin Scott of Fyntwa Succulents, Oudtshoorn. His years of practice make this technique look as simple as removing an Echeveria leaf. As with all Haworthia propagation though, it does take some practice to get it right!
While holding the plant with one hand, gently pull one of the lower leaves downward with one of your fingers. Once you can see the base of the leaf above this one, use your thumb and forefinger on your other hand to squeeze the base of the leaf you are pulling. Once you feel it give way slightly, you can pinch the leaf base and pull. This should remove the leaf with some stem tissue.
The squeeze and pinch technique
Method 2 – Scalpel or small knife
This technique is quite effective and was popularized worldwide by Haworthia artisan Gerhard Marx. It is the most precise technique of the three in this blog. It almost guarantees that the Haworthia leaf propagation will grow roots and pups.
As you will be working with a sharp scalpel, it will be best to place the plant on a flat, clean surface instead of holding it in your hand. Expose the stem by gently pulling one of the lower leaves of the plant downward. Carefully cut about 1-2mm into the stem just below the leaf, where it is attached to the stem. Wiggle the knife from the point of entry all the way along the base of the leaf, until it becomes loose enough to remove.
Using a sharp knife to propagate Haworthia leaves
Method 3 – Dental floss
This technique is standard for us at Living Desert Plants, as it is quite easy to do, and doesnβt take much practice to perfect. We often utilize it after coring / coppicing a plant, but it isn’t necessary to do that first
Gently pull down one of the lowest leaves of the plant youβre holding, then slide a piece of flat dental floss over that leaf towards the stem. Once itβs firmly at the base, just keep moving it from left to right, and the leaf should loosen and come off with a decent portion of stem tissue still attached.
We have found itβs best not to use round floss or fishing line, as this is not as precise as flat floss and may damage the plant.
Using dental floss to remove Haworthia leaves
Written by Harry Lewis, succulent specialist & conservationist