So, you’re thinkin’ about growin’ them cute String of Dolphins from just a leaf, huh? Well, I’ll tell ya right off the bat, it’s not the easiest way to get them little dolphins sproutin’. But don’t you worry now – I got a few things to say that might help you if you got the patience!
Can You Really Propagate String of Dolphins from a Leaf?

Well, lemme tell ya straight – the answer’s kinda tricky. See, String of Dolphins plants are them funny-lookin’ succulents that usually need a stem cuttin’ to grow well. You can give it a go with just a leaf, but I gotta say, don’t be expectin’ a full plant poppin’ up overnight. They take their sweet time, so patience is key if you’re set on tryin’.
Best Way to Propagate – Use Them Stems!
Now, if you’re wantin’ to have a better chance at seein’ them dolphins growin’ faster, a stem cuttin’ is what you need. Here’s how ya do it:
- First, find a nice, healthy stem on your String of Dolphins plant. Make sure it’s got plump leaves – them juicy ones do best.
- Take a clean knife or scissors (sharp ones, now!) and snip the stem just below a leaf. Try to cut a piece that’s around 5 inches or so; gives it a good startin’ size.
- Let that cuttin’ sit a day or two so it dries out a bit before ya put it in soil. Keeps it from rottin’, y’know?
What to Do with Just a Leaf?
Now, I know you’re curious about the leaf business. Well, yes, it is possible, but it ain’t ideal. With just a leaf, you’ll be waitin’ and watchin’ for a good long time. Here’s what you could do:
- Pick a nice, plump leaf, one that looks full and healthy.
- Place it gently on top of some well-drainin’ soil – don’t bury it, just let it sit there.
- Put it in a warm, humid spot, but not direct sun; they’re delicate at this stage.
And then…well, ya wait. Sometimes they start growin’ roots, sometimes they don’t. Even if they do, it’s slow work, and gettin’ a full plant from that leaf alone might take longer than ya got patience for.
Care Tips for Your String of Dolphins
Now that we’re talkin’ about it, let’s go over a few care tips so you don’t end up with sad lookin’ dolphins. These plants love some good indirect light – too much shade and they go all flat and droopy. If the dolphins are flat, they ain’t gettin’ enough sun. Keep ‘em near a bright window, but avoid direct sun or it’ll scorch ‘em.

They’re succulents, so don’t go drownin’ ’em in water. Just a little drink when the soil dries out. And keep ‘em outta cold spots – they don’t like the chill!
Things to Remember
- For best results, use stem cuttings, not just a leaf.
- Keep it warm, humid, and bright – they like that kinda environment.
- Be patient – growin’ succulents is slow work!
So, there ya have it. String of Dolphins ain’t the easiest to grow from a single leaf, but if you’ve got the patience, you can give it a try. Just remember, they’re happier with a good ol’ stem cuttin’ – faster and more likely to give ya that full, happy plant you’re lookin’ for.
Happy plantin’, and may you end up with a whole ocean full of them little dolphins!
Tags:[String of Dolphins propagation, leaf propagation, succulent care, stem cuttings, indoor plant care]