How do I propagate my houseplant?

Propagating houseplants is not just satisfying, it is also a brilliant way to expand your green oasis. Whether you want to multiply your favourite plant or simply add a few new leafy friends to your home, taking cuttings is the ideal way to do it. Every plant has its own wishes and needs, though. Curious how best to propagate your houseplant? Read on and discover the best techniques for your green friends!

The basics of propagating houseplants

It is best to take cuttings in spring or summer, when your plant is in its growing phase. In autumn and winter cuttings are less likely to survive, because the plants are resting and the roots grow more slowly. Taking cuttings in the warmer months gives the plant a much better chance to develop properly.

It is also worth knowing that every plant is different. That means propagation methods vary from plant to plant, and what works for one may be less successful for another. No need to worry, though: we will talk you through the most important methods.

Water or soil? Which is better for your cuttings?

If you are working with smaller stems or young plantlets, rooting in water is often the best option. Small cuttings root more quickly in water, and you can keep a close eye on their progress. Once your plantlet has enough roots, you can carefully move it into soil, where it will grow on. Do make sure the soil stays moist, but not too wet.

Popular propagation methods for houseplants

There are various ways to propagate a plant, depending on the type you have. The most common techniques are leaf cuttings, root cuttings, layering and division. Each method has its own advantages, so let's look at them one by one!

Leaf cuttings: from leaf to new plant

Leaf cuttings are one of the most popular propagation methods. There are several ways to go about it:

Leaf cuttings with the stalk

This is the simplest and quickest method. Cut off a healthy leaf with its stalk attached and put it in a new pot. Bury the stalk completely, so that only the leaf sits above the soil. This method works well for the golden pothos or the begonia, for example.

Leaf cuttings from the midrib

If the plant has a leaf with a clear midrib, you can cut it into pieces and set them into the soil at an angle. The midrib will develop into a root. This method is ideal for plants such as Sansevieria (snake plant) and Dracaena.

Leaf cuttings from a torn leaf

On plants with large leaves, such as the Monstera, you can cut the leaf into smaller pieces and place them in the soil top side down. After a few weeks to a few months, new roots and shoots will appear. This one takes a little patience, but the result is usually worth it!

Leaf cuttings with scored veins

Some plants, such as the Calathea, have no midrib but do have a strong system of veins. By scoring the veins, you can propagate the plant. Lay the leaf with the scored veins on the soil and after roughly two months new roots and plantlets will start to grow.

Propagating by layering: the natural route

Plants are always looking for new ways to grow and reproduce, and that works nicely in your favour! Layering is a natural way to multiply a plant. You bend a branch or aerial root down so that it touches the soil. The plant reads that soil as a source of food and develops new roots. After about four months you can snip the new roots free and move the young plant into a new pot. This technique suits the Spathiphyllum, for instance.

What do you need to propagate your houseplant?

To propagate successfully, you need a few things:

Sharp scissors or a knife: this keeps you from damaging the plant.
Small propagation pots or containers: little pots that drain well are ideal for your cuttings.
Soil or water: choose whichever method suits your plant best.
Rooting hormone (optional): this can help encourage root growth.

Patience is a virtue!

Whether you root in water or in soil, the most important thing is patience. Some cuttings start rooting within a few weeks, while others can take a couple of months. Give your cuttings a warm, bright spot, but keep them out of direct sunlight, because that can damage the young roots.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your kit and get started multiplying your favourite houseplants!