Propagation is an essential skill to master for any plant owner. It yields healthier plants by re-allocating energy to the parts that need it, allows you to fill in sections of foliage that are thinning for a fuller plant, and gives you the opportunity to increase the number of plants in your collection!
To propagate means to “breed specimens of a plant by natural processes from the parent stock.” For most houseplants, propagation is performed by cutting one of the stems off of the mother plant and letting it root out in water. However, some plants require special propagation methods for best success. Use this guide to navigate the world of houseplant propagation with ease!
Propagating Vines
For most leafy vines and trailing plants like Pothos, follow this method of propagation by cutting below nodes and placing straight into water. This technique will work best on Philodendron, Tradescantia, Monstera, Ivy, Lipstick plants and Hoyas as well. You should see roots form within one to two weeks!
Propagating Succulents
For succulents like Jade, Burro’s Tail, String of Hearts, Pearls, Dolphins, etc, use the callus method. This technique is also great for plants like Peperomias. While Jades can also be propagated the same way as Pothos, a lot of succulents tend to take in too much moisture if rooted out in water. Letting them dry out for a few days prevents rotting and stimulates root growth!
Propagating Cacti
For cacti, you can remove a leaf or pup and use the callus method. Remember to protect yourself from spikes! Wearing gloves or using tongs to handle cuttings is a great way to keep yourself out of harm’s way. If you use pruners to slice a leaf off, make sure to sanitize them beforehand to protect the tender cut from disease. Plant your cutting in a nice chunky, well-draining potting mix.
Propagating Sansevieria
Snake plants require a unique propagating method. Don’t worry, it’s easy! Cutting a “V” into the bottom of your leaf allows more surface area for roots to sprout. You need to let the cut callus for a few days before you place it into a shallow jar of water to root out. Make sure to keep an eye on the water level since it will not be much to begin with. Changing out your water each week is also recommended in general for all cuttings. It can take a REALLY long time for your cutting to root out so be patient. Once you are happy with your root supply plant your cutting in a small pot. Snake plants like to be snug!
Propagating Palms
Plants that sprout several stalks from a rhyzomatic root system like palms, ZZ Plants and Dracaenas can be propagated by pulling out one of the stems, preferably a new pup that has popped up out of the soil. Gently wiggle it until it gives. This can then be directly planted in soil since it already has roots.
Sometimes you can propagate these plants by cuttings too. You may see an offshoot growing off the side of one stalk. This can be cut off at the base and rooted in water!
Let this simple guide kickstart your houseplant propagation journey! For the houseplants that aren’t included here, try experimenting with different methods–it’s the best way to learn about your plants!
