Propagation 101: Multiply Your Plant Collection for Free
Learn the basics of plant propagation. Turn one plant into many with these simple techniques.
Moss & Myrtle Team
28 February 2026
2 min read
# Propagation 101: Multiply Your Plant Collection for Free
Why buy new plants when you can make them? Propagation is easier than you think.
## Methods of Propagation
### 1. Stem Cuttings (Most Common)
Best for: Pothos, Philodendron, Monstera, Tradescantia
**Steps:**
1. Cut a healthy stem below a node (the bump where leaves grow)
2. Remove lower leaves, keeping 2-3 at the top
3. Place in water or moist soil
4. Keep in bright, indirect light
5. Change water weekly if propagating in water
6. Roots should appear in 2-4 weeks
### 2. Division
Best for: Snake plant, peace lily, fern, prayer plant
**Steps:**
1. Remove plant from pot
2. Gently separate root clumps
3. Ensure each division has roots and leaves
4. Pot each division separately
5. Water well and keep humid
### 3. Leaf Cuttings
Best for: Succulents, begonia, African violet
**Steps:**
1. Remove a healthy leaf
2. Let the cut end callous for a day
3. Place on top of moist soil
4. Mist regularly
5. New plantlets will grow from the base
### 4. Offsets/Pups
Best for: Spider plant, aloe vera, bromeliads
**Steps:**
1. Wait until pup has its own roots
2. Cut or twist gently from parent
3. Pot in fresh soil
4. Water lightly
## Tips for Success
- Use clean, sharp scissors or secateurs
- Rooting hormone powder speeds things up (but isn't essential)
- Keep propagations warm (20-25°C ideal)
- Be patient – some plants take weeks to root
- Not every cutting will succeed – take several
## Best Plants to Start With
1. Pothos – Roots incredibly easily in water
2. Spider plant – Just pot the babies
3. Succulents – Leaves grow new plants
4. Tradescantia – Roots in days
5. Snake plant – Division is foolproof
Start propagating and share the plant love with friends!