One of the most common questions we get is how to successfully propagate your plants. There is no “one size fits all” answer, as different plants require using different methods. But, here are three common ways you can use on a wide range of plants. So go forth and propagate!
Propagation by Cuttings
For this method, you will need a pair of scissors or cutting shears, and a clean glass or vase filled with room temperature water. This method is perfect for plants such as the Pothos and the Monstera Adansonii. Carefully examine the plant you wish to propagate. Look for a stem with a node, (a bump on the stem where the leaf or flower attaches). Make a cut below the node, making sure the cutting is between 4 and 6 inches long.
Once you have your cutting, place it in your container of water, completely submerging the node on the stem. Then, monitor the progress. Be sure to change the water every 3-5 days and wait for roots to start growing. This can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months, depending on the specific plant. Once the roots are 3-5 inches long, your cutting is ready to be planted in soil.
Propagation by Leaf Cutting
Some plants may also be propagated by leaf cuttings. Again, you will need a pair of scissors or cutting shears, and a clean glass or vase filled with water. This method works great for Sansevierias. The first step with this plant is to cut one of the leaves near the soil. Once you have your leaf, cut it into horizontal pieces and place them in your container of water, making sure the bottom half of the leaf is fully submerged.
A similar process can be followed with many other plants. Simply cut a leaf from the plant you wish to propagate and place it in a container of water. Roots will start to grow over the following weeks. Remember to transfer them to soil once they are 3-5 inches long.
Propagation by Division
For this method you will need a knife, potting soil and a pot into which you will place your new plant. This method is also great for Sansevierias, which tend to create many pups from the mother plant. These pups grow their own root structures and can be easily divided from the main plant. The first step is to take your plant and, using your knife, cut into the root ball to separate the pup from the main plant. Take care that there are enough healthy roots attached to each separated pup to ensure it will survive.
Once you have your pup(s) separated from the main plant, place them in their new container filled with potting soil. Water thoroughly. Your next step? Sit back and watch that new baby grow!
Happy Growing!
