Plant Propagation

WATER PROPAGATION

Water propagation is probably the most widely used propagation method and the easiest, but it does not work for all types of plants.  One of the great things about this method is you can watch the roots start to develop, so you will know exactly when it is time to take your new baby plant and put it into some soil or not.  Many plants can stay in the water and thrive.  

Here are some types of plants that will root in water:

Pothos

Philodendron

Just to name a few

SOIL PROPAGATION

While water propagation is most popular, there is something to say about propagating in the soil.  I have done this with a few of my plants and to say that when I see these plants start to take off that I am amazed and proud is an understatement.

They say when you propagate in the soil the cuttings will develop a better root system in the potting mixture than they will in the water.  Now, honestly, I believe this method works better on certain plants like the vining plants for some reason and I have yet to try it on a different type.  The vining plants seem to just adjust to the transition very well.  You basically fill the pot with fresh soil, making sure it’s at least ¾ full.  Then take a cutting of your plant of choice, making sure you have a node as that is where the roots grow from.  Poke your finger a few inches into the soil and place the cutting in the hole.  Fill the pot the rest of the way with soil, press the soil down, and water.  Make sure to keep the soil moist, so that roots will start to grow.

Here are some types of plants that will root well in soil:

Philodendron

Spider Plant

PROPAGATION BOX

Now this one I owe all the credit to my daughter Kayla.  She was the one that told me about this.   It is like a mini-greenhouse, that protects your cuttings and gives them enough moisture to they can survive until they grow roots.

A propagation box comes in handy, and it makes rooting cuttings much easier! There are many different types and styles of propagation boxes. Some are very fancy (and expensive) and others are not so fancy, but cheap (or free!).

Here is what you will need to make your own:

1. Clear plastic container

2. Rooting medium

3. Water

4. Drill for holes

Step 1:

Purchase a clear container and wash it with soap and water.  It is important that the container is clear so that light can reach inside the container.  The size is totally up to you.  Then drill holes in the lid with the drill.

Step 2:

Add 3-4inches of medium and spread evenly.

The medium can be peat moss or coco coir, perlite or pumice, and vermiculite.  

Do Not Use potting soil! It is too heavy and will cause your cuttings to rot.

Step 3:

Add water.

Wet down the rooting medium with water.  Do not overwater, it needs to be moist, not soggy.  If you overwater just leave the lid off for about a day or two to let excess water evaporate before adding cuttings.

Step 4:

Add your cuttings

Layer them onto of your medium

Step 5:

Place lid with holes on top, then place the container into a well-lit area.  Don’t place into direct sunlight just a well-lit area.

And there you have it!  Happy propagating!

Lisa