It’s time to Propagate

One of my favorite things about having houseplants is that you don’t always have to buy more. Don’t get me wrong—I still do. 😅 But there’s something really satisfying about taking one plant and turning it into several.

The first time I propagated a pothos, I honestly wasn’t sure it was going to work. I put a cutting in a glass of water, forgot about it for a couple of weeks, and one day noticed little white roots growing. I was hooked.

If you’ve never propagated a plant before, don’t let the word intimidate you. It’s much easier than it sounds.

What Does “Propagate” Mean?

Propagation simply means growing a new plant from one you already have. Instead of buying another pothos or monstera, you can use a healthy cutting and grow a brand-new plant right at home.

It’s an easy way to grow your collection, save money, and share plants with family and friends.

The Best Plants for Beginners

Not every plant propagates the same way, but these are some of the easiest to start with:

• Pothos
• Philodendron
• Monstera
• Spider Plant
• Tradescantia
• String of Hearts

If you’re completely new to houseplants, start with a pothos. They’re incredibly forgiving and root pretty quickly.

What You’ll Need

Nothing fancy.

• A healthy plant
• Clean scissors
• A glass or small jar
• Fresh water

That’s it.

How to Propagate in Water

Find a healthy stem and look for a little bump where the leaves grow. That’s called a node, and it’s where the new roots will come from.

Cut just below the node and remove any leaves that would sit underwater.

Place the cutting in a glass of water with the node submerged, then set it somewhere with bright, indirect light.

Now comes the hardest part…

Waiting.

Change the water every few days and keep an eye on it. Some plants grow roots in a week or two, while others take a little longer.

When Should You Move It to Soil?

Once the roots are a couple of inches long, it’s ready for soil.

Give it a good watering after planting, and don’t worry if it takes a little time to adjust. That’s completely normal.

A Few Things I’ve Learned

I’ve definitely made my share of mistakes.

I’ve cut above the node instead of below it.

I’ve forgotten to change the water.

I’ve been impatient and planted cuttings too early.

The nice thing about plants is that they’re pretty forgiving. Every mistake teaches you something.

Why I Love Propagating

For me, propagation isn’t just about getting free plants. It’s fun to watch something so small turn into a healthy new plant. It never gets old seeing those first little roots appear.

Plus, it’s a great excuse to share plants with friends… or fill another empty spot in your house.

No judgment here if your “one little plant” collection somehow turns into twenty. Mine did too.

Happy growing! 🌿

Obsessed with the following.

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