Propagating Monsteras & Snake Plants
Welcome Back
Let's talk about indoor plant propagation for indoor jungle vibes! If you're eager to expand your plant collection without breaking the bank or simply want to share the love by gifting plant babies to friends, you're stumbled upon the right place.
My friends encouraged me to start propagating my own indoor plants back in early May and wanted to track the progress. Even without looking at the data myself, I believe that there must be a positive connection between the presence of house plants and mental health. Indoor plants have been said to reduce stress levels, improve mood, enhance cognitive function, contribute to better air quality and overall health. While individual experiences may vary, incorporating house plants into indoor environments is generally considered a low-cost and natural way to promote well-being and support mental health.
This time, I cover the process of propagating two popular indoor plants: monsteras & snake plants. Grab your gardening gloves, plant babies and plenty of water!
Monsteras:
A Monstrously Beautiful Plant:
Monsteras, are identified by their iconic split leaves and lush foliage. They make a stunning addition to any indoor jungle. Propagating these leafy wonders can be done in a few simple steps.
1. Choose the right method:
Monsteras can be propagated through stem cuttings or air layering. For beginners, stem cuttings are a great place to start.
2. Select a healthy stem:
Look for a mature stem with at least one node. Nodes are where roots will develop, so having multiple nodes increases the chances of successful propagation. Here is everything you need to know about monstera nodes
3. Make the cut:
Using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or a sterilized knife, take a cutting just below a node. Aim for a cutting that is 4-6 inches long. Remove any leaves near the lower end of the cutting, leaving a few at the top for photosynthesis.
4. Rooting the cutting:
Place the baby cutting in a glass of water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water every few days to prevent rot. After a few weeks, you should notice roots starting to grow. Once the roots are a few inches long, it's time to transfer the cutting into a pot filled with well-draining soil. Ensure a quality soil is used. I opt for organic soil because it comes with a bunch of great perks for our plants. First off, it's all-natural and free from harmful chemicals, creating a healthier and safer environment for our green buddies to grow in. Organic soil is rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms that nourish plants and support their overall well-being. It promotes strong root development, leading to healthier and more resilient plants. Additionally, organic soil improves soil structure, allowing for better water retention and drainage. This helps prevent waterlogging and ensures plants get the right amount of moisture. Organic soil also promotes biodiversity in the soil, fostering a balanced ecosystem that supports beneficial insects and organisms. By using organic plant soil, we can provide our plants with the best possible foundation for growth, while minimizing the impact on the environment.
5. Nurture & watch it grow:
Keep the newly potted plant in a warm, bright spot away from direct sunlight. Water it regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Be careful not to over water. With time and care, your Monstera cutting will transform into a full-grown, majestic plant.
Snake Plants:
Easy to Propagate, Hard to Kill:
Snake plants, also known as Sansevierias, are popular for their low maintenance and air-purifying properties. Propagating snake plants is a breeze, making them an ideal choice for beginner plant enthusiasts.
1. Select a healthy leaf: Look for a mature leaf that is at least six inches long. You can propagate snake plants through leaf cuttings or by dividing the rhizomes (underground stems).
2. Leaf cutting method: Cut a leaf into several sections, each about 2-3 inches long. Ensure each section has a small portion of the leaf's base intact. These sections will be your new plant babies.
3. Preparing the cuttings: Allow the cuttings to dry for a day or two. This step helps prevent rotting when you plant them. Plant rot can be a real problem for our green friends. When plants are exposed to too much moisture and don't have proper drainage, their roots can start decaying, causing root rot. This can lead to wilting, yellow leaves, stunted growth, and even plant death. To make matters worse, fungal and bacterial infections can tag along and make the situation even worse. If you don't take care of it in time, plant rot can spread and affect other nearby plants, wreaking havoc on our beloved garden or indoor plant collection. So, it's important to keep an eye out, water your plants properly, and make sure they have good drainage to prevent or manage the dangers of plant rot.
4. Potting the cuttings: Fill a pot with well-draining soil and create small holes to accommodate the cuttings. Plant them shallowly, burying only the base and leaving the leaf section above the soil. Gently press the soil around each cutting to secure it.
5. Minimal care required: Place the potted cuttings in a bright location with indirect sunlight. Snake plants are tolerant of low-light conditions, making them adaptable to various indoor environments. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Propagating indoor plants like monsteras and snake plants allows you to enjoy the gratification of plant parenthood and create a lush green haven within your home. Whether you're a newbie or an experienced plant enthusiast, these propagation techniques are accessible and rewarding. So roll up your sleeves & embrace your green thumb!
