How to Propagate Pothos and Philodendron from Cuttings
Grow more houseplants from cuttings using water or soil. Sources differ on timing and hormone use, so choose the method that fits your schedule and preference.
What you need
- Sharp scissors or pruning shears
- Clean container for water propagation
- Potting mix
- Rooting hormone
Steps
- Disinfect your tools to prevent disease. Choose a healthy stem 4-6 inches long with at least 2-3 sets of leaves. Cut just below a node, which is the bump where leaves attach. Remove the bottom leaves, leaving 2-4 leaves at the top.
- Place the cutting in clean water. Change the water every 2-3 days to keep it fresh. Roots usually appear within 2 weeks and reach 2-3 inches in 4-8 weeks.
- Plant the cutting in the prepared soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. You can apply rooting hormone here if you prefer. Roots should form in a few weeks.
- Once roots are established, move the plant to a pot with well-draining soil. Provide proper lighting and humidity to help it settle in.
Why it works
Why disinfect tools?
Cleaning scissors prevents the spread of pathogens and keeps your plants healthy.
Why nodes matter
Nodes are essential for root formation. Cutting below them ensures the plant has the right starting point to grow new roots.
Water vs. Soil
Water propagation is faster, but those roots might struggle when moved to soil. Starting in soil builds stronger roots adapted to dirt from the start.
Why change water?
Fresh water stops bacteria from growing, which keeps roots healthy and strong.
Related on Gardeners Bible: Propagating Pothos in Water: A Simple Guide, How to Prune Summer-Bearing Red Raspberries, How to Divide Perennials in October, How to Plant Spring Bulbs for a Full Season of Color.
If it goes wrong
Roots not forming
Check that the cutting has a node. Without a node, roots won't develop. Also, ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Moldy or smelly water
Change the water more frequently. Stagnant water breeds bacteria that can rot the stem.
