The leaf petiole should be about one inch long, enough to hold the leaf blade in a nearly upright position. Keep the propagating material moist at all times because periods of dryness will discourage root development. Warm temperatures stimulate roots to grow quickly. Ideally, the root temperature should be around 70 degrees. Do not place the cutting in an overly bright location.
Excessive light can quickly destroy the leaf blade.
A rotting leaf stem base often indicates there is too much water in the propagating medium. This may be due to poor drainage, inappropriate medium or cold root temperatures. Some gardeners like to root leaf cuttings in water. Place a piece of wax paper over the top of a small container, and fasten it securely with a rubber band. Then, insert the slip, or leaf cutting, through a small hole in the center of the paper and into the water.