The easiest way to propagate your African Milk Tree (*Euphorbia trigona*) is by taking cuttings. If you give them the right TLC, you’ll have brand-new little succulents in no time—and since they’re clones, they’ll look exactly like the parent plant. Here’s my step-by-step guide on how to get it done right.
Taking Your Cuttings
If you’re already pruning your African Milk Tree, you might as well use those trimmings to start new plants! Just a heads-up: be super careful with the milky sap that leaks out when you cut it. It’s toxic and can really irritate your skin, so wear gloves and avoid any contact.
For the best results, you’ll want to use the “head” or top sections of the branches. While the middle or bottom parts *can* grow roots, the top tips just look much better as they grow. Aim for cuttings that are about 8 to 12 inches long. You can go shorter if you need to, but longer cuttings are much easier to stabilize in the soil once you plant them.
Let Them Dry Out First
Don’t rush to put your cuttings in a pot right away! Because they’re so juicy, the fresh “wound” is prone to mold or rot if it hits moist soil immediately. Instead, let your cuttings sit out in a warm, bright spot for a few days. This allows the cut end to callus over and seal in the moisture it needs.
Choosing the Right Soil
When it comes to soil, think “dry and sandy.” You definitely want to avoid heavy, clay-based, or soggy potting mixes. You can make your own by mixing standard loose potting soil with a good amount of sand or fine gravel. If you want to keep it simple, grab a bag of:
- Succulent mix
- Or cactus soil.
Planting Your Cuttings
Once the ends are nice and dry, tuck the cuttings (cut-side down, of course!) into your prepared pots. Depending on the size of the container, you can even group a few together. Keep the soil on the drier side—don’t overwater them! Place the pots in a warm, sunny spot; a bright windowsill is usually the perfect “nursery” for these guys.
Rooting and Growth
In a few weeks, your cuttings will start developing their own root systems. Even once they’ve settled in, keep the watering light—overwatering is the quickest way to kill a young succulent. Once they’ve grown a bit and feel sturdy, you can move them into their own permanent pots.
