One of the most popular methods for propagating plants is through cutting propagation. This approach doesn’t require any specialized tools, conditions or techniques, making it accessible to anyone. Furthermore, this method allows for the complete transfer of hereditary traits from the mother plant. The type of cutting taken can vary depending on the part of the mother plant being used. Stem, leaf and root cuttings are all options.
By learning how to propagate plants through cuttings, you’ll be able to save money by growing your own instead of relying on expensive store-bought specimens. Simply follow our step-by-step guide below and enjoy the satisfaction of nurturing new life from your efforts.
African Violets
To cultivate Saintpaulia, leaf cuttings prove to be an effortless and successful method. Begin by placing the cut leaves in a glass of water, taking care not to allow them to come into contact with one another. As the roots begin to develop, ensure the environment remains warm, with temperatures consistently above 20°C. It typically takes 3-5 weeks for the roots to emerge.
Once rooted, plant your African violet in a potting mix featuring a crumbly texture, providing the ideal foundation for healthy growth.
Arrowhead Plant
Syngonium podophyllum, also known as the Syngonium plant, can be easily propagated at home using both apical and air cuttings. To ensure successful propagation, each cutting should have at least two nodes on it. The ideal time to initiate this process is during the spring and summer seasons when the plant is in its active growth phase. When making the cut, it’s essential to use a sharp knife or pruning tool to minimize damage to the remaining stem.
Two methods can be employed for Syngonium propagation: one involves submerging the cutting in warm water where activated charcoal has been dissolved, allowing roots to develop quickly. Alternatively, you can treat the cut end of the cutting with a grow stimulator and then plant it directly into a pot filled with a suitable substrate. During this rooting period, it’s crucial to cover the pot with a foil or bag to maintain high humidity and promote healthy root development.
Begonia From
To successfully propagate Begoniaceae, there are two primary methods: stem cuttings and corm division. For stem cuttings, select a section that is at least 5 cm in length and remove it from the parent plant. Plant this cutting in well-draining soil and ensure the pot has proper ventilation by placing it in a polyethylene bag with holes. Maintain an ambient temperature of at least 17°C. Alternatively, you can propagate using mature leaves.
For this method, choose a healthy leaf that is cut inclined where it meets the stem. Plant the leaf in soil so that half of the stem is covered and provide similar conditions as mentioned above.
Black Eyed Susan Vine
Thunbergia alata, a stunning indoor shrub, can be easily propagated using stem cuttings. To start, select a 6-8 inch long stem and carefully remove the lower leaves to promote rooting. Next, place the cutting in a glass of fresh water, allowing it to develop its root system. Once the roots have fully established, transfer the cutting to a pot and enjoy your newly propagated Thunbergia alata.
Chinese Money Plant
Pilea peperomioides, commonly known as the Chinese Money Plant, boasts an effortless reproduction process. As new stems emerge, they can be effortlessly propagated by cutting them from the mother plant and transplanting them to a fresh pot. It’s essential to maintain a balance between moisture levels, ensuring the soil remains damp but not waterlogged, to prevent rot and ensure the young plant thrives.
Creeping Fig
To successfully propagate the Creeping Fig (Ficus pumila), one effective method is to position a pot adjacent to the mother plant, allowing its branches to make contact. As the stems touch, the Creeping Fig will naturally generate roots, enabling you to then sever and replant the new stems from the parent plant. Another viable approach involves cutting mature stems measuring 10-14 cm in length.
To avoid stressing the mother plant, it’s essential to ensure the stem is fully developed before making the cut.
Croton
Propagation of Codiaeum is a straightforward process that doesn’t require extensive horticultural expertise. To initiate the process, select a healthy stem in the spring season and place it in a container filled with water. A warm ambient temperature is crucial for successful propagation. For an accelerated root development, consider applying a rooting hormone to the cutting. Alternatively, you can place the stem in wet sand and utilize either a hormone or soil warming techniques.
Dragon Tree
When propagating Dracaena marginata, start by cutting the top of the plant at an angle about 15-18 cm above the bottom leaf. If possible, cut just below a node to promote rooting. Remove all dead or dying leaves from the cutting and allow it to air dry in the room for approximately two hours.
Once dried, you can use one of three methods to stimulate root development: submerge the cutting in a mixture of water and activated charcoal; plant it in a blend of peat, charcoal, and sand; or use a specialized substrate designed specifically for decorative palms.
Dumb Cane
To propagate Dieffenbachia, botanists recommend using apical or stem cuttings as the most effective method. For optimal rooting results, it’s essential to create a controlled environment that mimics the plant’s natural conditions. One way to achieve this is by growing the cuttings in an improvised greenhouse with a heated bottom, allowing you to simulate the ideal temperature range of 21-24 degrees Celsius.
Alternatively, you can also place the cuttings in water, sand, peat-sand mix, or sphagnum, as long as they receive sufficient bright light and regular watering to promote healthy root development.
English Ivy
To propagate Ivy (Hedera helix), you’ll need to use stem cuttings with at least two sets of leaves. Begin by taking a cutting and placing it in water, allowing roots to form. If your cutting already possesses roots, plant it in sandy soil where the roots can continue to develop before being transplanted to its final location. To enhance root development, consider placing a jar over the pot to create a humid microclimate.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
To propagate a Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata), you can use apical cuttings. Begin by dipping the cut end of the cutting into warm water for a brief period, then plant it in soil. To encourage root development, cover the pot with a polyethylene bag until the roots are fully established.
Geraniums
Pelargonium propagation can be carried out throughout the year, yet the ideal time to do so is at the end of summer or early autumn. To initiate the process, you’ll need to identify and extract stem nodes from the top or side sprouts. Ensure that all leaves except for the topmost ones are removed, as these will not be required for planting. Additionally, it’s crucial to remove any stipules present on the lower section of the plant, which will eventually be planted in a potting mix.
Grape Ivy
To successfully propagate Grape Ivy (Cissus rhombifolia), begin by selecting an apical stem with a few leaves and carefully cutting it from the parent plant. Submerge this cutting into a glass of water or a well-draining peat-sand mix, allowing its roots to develop and establish themselves. Once established, transplant the cutting into standard potting soil.
For optimal growth and a lush, full vine, consider planting multiple cuttings in the same container – simply divide the space evenly among each stem.
Hoya
For optimal Hoya propagation, the spring and summer seasons are ideal. To initiate the process, snip off a short cutting featuring one to two sets of leaves. Crucially, ensure this cutting has at least two nodes, as these will be responsible for developing roots and leaves, thanks to their high concentration of root hormones. Submerge the cutting in either water or soil, taking care to cover any large containers with water-laden aluminum foil to shield it from direct sunlight.
Alternatively, plant the cutting directly into a light potting mix rich in peat moss or an alternative humus-based substrate that maintains a humid environment.
Jade Plant
Crassula ovata, a humble yet versatile plant, can be easily multiplied through leaf or stem propagation. To initiate this process, collect cuttings from the top of the plant, taking care to handle them gently to avoid damage. Next, allow the cuts to air dry slightly before planting them in a well-draining mix of peat and sand. For optimal results, introduce these cuttings into their new environment during early spring when the soil is warm and conducive to root development.
Philodendron
Philodendron is a plant that can be easily propagated using stem cuttings, provided it has at least two or three stems on the mother plant. To start, take one of these stems and place it in a glass or jar filled with clean water. If you notice any sprouts forming along the stem, gently tear them off and let them sit in the water until roots begin to develop. This method allows for efficient rooting without the need for soil. Alternatively, you can propagate Philodendron in soil as well.
Simply plant the cutting and cover it with stretch foil, taking care to remove the film periodically to allow any excess humidity to evaporate.
Pothos
To propagate Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), select a stem cutting featuring 2-3 leaves. Submerge the cutting in water or directly plant it in a well-draining medium. If you opt for the water method, be prepared to transplant the rooted cutting into soil once its root system has matured.
Prayer Plant
To propagate the Maranta leuconeura, one effective method involves isolating a sprout from the mother plant and allowing it to develop its root system in water for several weeks. This approach allows the young roots to establish themselves before being transferred to a suitable growing medium. Alternatively, gardeners can employ a less common yet still viable technique: taking a cutting below a node at the base of the stem and planting it directly into a potting mix.
This method promotes healthy root growth and establishment in its new environment.
Rubber Tree
To successfully propagate the Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica), you’ll want to focus on using green stem cuttings. The process begins with carefully cutting the stems, taking care to remove any flowers or leaves that may be present. Next, gently submerge the cut ends in cool water to encourage the natural release of latex sap, also known as ‘milk juice’. This step is crucial in promoting root growth and reducing the risk of contamination.
Once the stems are properly prepared, it’s time to plant them in a well-draining potting mix. To further enhance the development of a robust root system, consider adding a root growth stimulator to the soil. By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to successfully propagating the Rubber Tree and enjoying its unique benefits for years to come.
Silver Dollar Vine
To create a new Silver Dollar Vine, you’ll need to be patient and take a few simple steps. Start by selecting a mature and healthy leaf from the mother plant. Using a sharp knife or pruning tool, carefully remove the leaf from the stem, leaving a small amount of stem attached to the leaf. Allow the cut end of the leaf to dry completely before placing it on top of a well-draining succulent mix in a pot.
Over the next six weeks, keep an eye out for tiny roots to begin growing from the base of the leaf. With proper care and time, your new plant should be ready to thrive.
Snake Plant
Sansevieria trifasciata, or the stunning Snake Plant, offers an unexpected advantage – it can be easily propagated through leaf cuttings. Start by selecting a mature leaf and cutting it into 6-7 cm long segments. Allow these segments to dry for a few hours outside, exposing them to the elements. Next, place each segment vertically into a substrate composed of sand and peat soil. Optimal temperatures for root development range from 20 to 22°C.
As an alternative, you can also submerge the cut pieces in water, though roots may take around a month to form.
String of Bananas
When it comes to propagating Senecio radicans, a similar approach can be taken with String of Pearls. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the soil for the newly propagated plants remains consistently moist.
String of Nickels
The Dischidia nummularia, a slowly growing yet striking plant, can be easily propagated using stem cuttings. To initiate the process, simply place a short section of stem directly into pre-moistened sphagnum moss. Allow the root system to develop before transferring the cutting to a pot filled with a well-draining orchid bark mix.
Strings of Pearls
To propagate Senecio rowleyanus, commonly known as Strings of Pearls, there are two effective methods: division and stem cutting. Both techniques require attention to timing, as they should be performed during the plant’s vegetative period in spring and summer. For division, carefully extract a few strings from the mother plant without separating them, and place them in a pot near an existing plant. Remove any leaves that will come into contact with soil to prevent rot.
As the roots develop rapidly, you can then cut the strings away from the mother plant within a month.
Split Leaf Plant
To propagate Monstera deliciosa, start by taking a stem cutting and placing it in a glass of water with a dissolved charcoal tablet. This will help prevent rotting and promote healthy root growth. Once roots develop, dip the bottom of the cutting in liquid fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for establishment. After about three weeks, when the roots are well-established, carefully remove the cutting from the water and plant it in fresh soil. Regular watering is crucial during this period.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to successfully propagate Monstera deliciosa and enjoy its unique foliage in your own home.
Ti Plant
To propagate Ti Plants, start by taking apical cuttings or young stem sprouts that have at least one node. Plant them in a well-draining mix of wet sand and peat soil, making sure to provide enough moisture for optimal growth. Monitor the cuttings closely for signs of root development – typically manifesting as small white roots protruding from the base of the cutting. Once these root mustaches appear, you can transplant your new Ti Plant into a larger container or directly into the ground.
In the meantime, ensure the cuttings receive consistent moisture and maintain a comfortable temperature range of 25-30°C by regularly misting with water.
Tradescantia
Tradescantia, a stunning plant, can be successfully propagated through cuttings taken during spring, summer, or autumn, provided they are around 10 cm in length. This process involves establishing the root system either in water or soil. Interestingly, even small stem pieces with just two nodes can produce roots when planted in soil and covered only at the lower node. As for lighting, it’s essential to provide indirect light, while maintaining a temperature of approximately 20 degrees Celsius.
Another method for cultivating roots is by submerging the cutting in water. In as little as two weeks, a well-developed root network can emerge.
Umbrella Tree
Schefflera propagation can be achieved through two primary methods: seed germination or stem cuttings. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem in the summer, then trim it to about 4-6 inches long. Place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix that’s been mixed with an equal part of sand. The ideal temperature for this new plant’s growth is within the range of 68°F to 77°F (20-25°C).
Once the roots have fully developed, transfer the young Schefflera to a more permanent potting mix that still incorporates one part sand for optimal drainage.
Wax Ivy
When it comes to propagating the Wax Ivy, Senecio macroglossus, it’s essential to take long cuttings during the warmer months. A crucial step is to place these cuttings in a container filled with almost dry sand. To promote healthy growth, the container should be placed in an area that receives indirect sunlight and maintain a warm ambient temperature.
Weeping Fig
To propagate Ficus benjamina, begin by selecting a stem from the apical part of the mother plant and cutting it so that 2-4 leaves remain. Perform an inclined cut using a sharp knife to promote healthy rooting. Next, submerge the cut end in warm water until the sap begins to flow out. Once the sap ceases to flow, dry the cutting at room temperature for two hours before proceeding. In a container of water, add a charcoal tablet and place the cuttings within it.
Position the container near a window, but ensure it is not exposed to direct sunlight. As you await the development of roots measuring at least 2 centimeters in length, keep the environment consistent. Once this milestone is achieved, transplant the young Ficus benjamina to its new location.
ZZ Plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia, also known as the wish tree, is a unique plant that can be propagated through two methods: separating the tubers or taking leaf cuttings. The latter approach involves removing the bottom portion of the torn leaves and placing them in a mixture of wet sand and compost within a pot. It’s crucial to cover the pot with a nylon bag to maintain humidity, allowing the leaf parts to develop structures resembling bulbs that can be planted and nurtured into new plants.
While this process may take around a year, patience is key to successful propagation.
