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How to Propagate Monstera Plant? A Complete Step-by-Step Guide!

How to Propagate Monstera Plant? A Complete Step-by-Step Guide!

Monstera plants, particularly Monstera deliciosa and Monstera adansonii, are popular houseplants due to their lush, tropical foliage and ease of care.

A great way to grow more monstera plants or share them with friends is by propagating them from cuttings. Propagation is a simple and cost-effective way to expand your plant collection.

In this guide, you’ll learn the best ways to propagate Monstera, including the tools needed, the techniques involved, and post-propagation care.

Materials Needed

Before you start, gather the following supplies to make the process easier:

  • Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors: Sterilize the tools to prevent disease spread.
  • A glass jar or container: For water propagation.
  • Rooting hormone (optional): Can speed up root development.
  • Clean water: For water propagation.
  • Potting mix for Monstera: Choose a well-draining mix, such as aroid or orchid potting mix.
  • A pot with drainage holes: Essential for planting your cutting once roots have formed.

Step 1: Selecting the Right Stem for Propagation

Look for a Node

The most crucial part of propagating Monstera is choosing a cutting with a node. Nodes are small bumps or growth points on the stem where new roots and shoots will grow.

A successful cutting must have at least one node, as leaves alone won’t produce roots.

Healthy Stem Cuttings

Choose a healthy, mature stem with at least 2-3 leaves. Avoid stems with yellowing or damaged leaves, as they may be less viable for propagation.

The stem should have a visible node and, ideally, an aerial root (a root that extends above the soil) to encourage faster rooting.

Step 2: Make the Cut

To take your cutting:

  1. Use sterilized pruning shears or scissors to cut a 4-6 inch section of the stem just below the node.
  2. Make a clean cut to avoid damaging the stem, which could lead to rotting.
  3. If you want to boost root growth, dip the cut end into the rooting hormone before moving to the next step. While not necessary, this can help speed up the process.

Step 3: Water Propagation vs. Soil Propagation

There are two main ways to propagate monstera cuttings: water propagation and soil propagation. Both methods have pros and cons, and the choice depends on your preference.

Water Propagation

Water propagation allows you to watch the root development closely, which can be gratifying for plant enthusiasts.

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Place the cutting in a glass jar filled with clean water, making sure that the node is fully submerged.
  2. Keep the jar in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight to encourage growth.
  3. Change the water every 3-5 days to prevent stagnation and bacteria build-up.
  4. Roots typically begin to develop within 2-4 weeks. When they reach about 2-3 inches in length, your monstera is ready to be transplanted into soil.

Soil Propagation

Soil propagation skips the water phase and allows the plant to grow directly in its permanent medium, though root development is harder to observe.

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Fill a small pot with a well-draining potting mix, preferably one designed for aroids (like Monstera).
  2. Bury the cutting node into the soil and press the soil gently around it.
  3. Water lightly to keep the soil moist, but not soggy.
  4. Keep the pot in an area with indirect light and maintain humidity if possible. Mist the cutting occasionally to provide extra moisture.

Step 4: Potting Your Monstera Cutting

Once the roots have developed (2-3 inches for water propagation or stable growth for soil propagation):

  1. Transplant the cutting from water to soil or into a larger pot if it’s already in the soil.
  2. Use a pot with drainage holes and a well-draining aroid mix to prevent root rot.
  3. Water the soil lightly after transplanting and ensure it is kept moist but not waterlogged.

Step 5: Post-Propagation Care Tips

After propagation, your monstera needs special attention to grow into a healthy, mature plant:

Watering Schedule: Water your monstera only when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has good drainage.

Light Conditions: Place the monstera in an area with bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, while too little light will slow down growth.

Humidity: Monstera plants thrive in humid environments. To maintain moisture, mist the leaves occasionally, or place the plant near a humidifier.

Fertilization: Once the plant is established, feed it a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every month during the growing season (spring and summer).

Common Problems During Propagation

Here are some issues that might arise during monstera propagation and how to resolve them:

Yellowing Leaves: Yellow leaves often indicate overwatering or too much direct sunlight. Move the plant to a less bright location and adjust the watering schedule.

Root Rot: If the cutting was in the water for too long or the soil wasn’t well-draining, root rot can develop. Prevent this by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding waterlogged conditions.

No Root Growth: If the cutting hasn’t developed roots within 4-6 weeks, it might be because the node wasn’t properly submerged or exposed to light. Try adjusting the light conditions or ensure you’ve chosen a healthy node.

FAQs

How long does it take for Monstera to root?

It typically takes 2-4 weeks for monstera cuttings to develop roots when propagated in water. In soil, the process might take slightly longer as the roots grow directly in their permanent medium.

Can I propagate Monstera without a node?

No, a node is essential for successful propagation. Without a node, the cutting won’t be able to develop roots, even if it has leaves.

Conclusion

Propagating Monstera is a rewarding and relatively simple process that allows you to grow new plants for your collection or to share with friends.

By following the right steps, selecting a healthy cutting with a node, and providing proper post-propagation care, your monstera will thrive and grow into a beautiful new plant.

James Rivenburg
James Rivenburg
James Rivenburg

James Rivenburg is the founder of plantandpest.com, a passionate gardener with valuable experience and knowledge gained through trial and error. The website has a large community of followers who trust his tips and techniques and have succeeded with his advice. He is always Committed to helping others create a beautiful and healthy garden.

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