How To Propagate Monstera

Want more of those beautiful, split-leaf beauties in your home? Learning how to propagate monstera is a simple and rewarding way to expand your plant collection or share with friends. This guide will walk you through the easiest methods, step-by-step.

Propagation is just taking a piece of a parent plant and encouraging it to grow its own roots. For monsteras, it’s surprisingly straightforward. With a few basic supplies and a little patience, you’ll have new plants in no time.

There are a few reliable ways to create new monstera plants. The most popular method is water propagation, as it’s easy and lets you watch the roots develop. You can also propagate directly in soil or use sphagnum moss. We’ll cover them all.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Gathering your tools beforehand makes the process smooth. You likely have most of these items at home already.

A healthy, mature monstera plant (the parent).
Clean, sharp pruning shears or a knife.
Small pots or glass jars/vases for water propagation.
Fresh potting mix (well-draining).
Optional: Rooting hormone powder or gel.
Optional: Sphagnum moss for the moss method.

Choosing the Perfect Stem Cutting

The success of your propagation starts with taking a good cutting. A poor cutting won’t root well, so choose wisely.

Look for a stem that has at least one node. The node is a brownish, ring-like bump on the stem where leaves and aerial roots emerge. This is where new roots will grow from. A cutting without a node will not root.

It’s also ideal if your cutting has at least one leaf. This helps the plant photosynthesize while it develops roots. A healthy, mature leaf is best.

Where to Make the Cut

Using your clean shears, cut about a quarter-inch below the node. Make sure your tool is clean to prevent introducing disease to the parent plant or your cutting. A diagonal cut is often recommended, as it provides a larger surface area for rooting.

Method 1: Water Propagation (The Most Popular)

This is the go-to method for beginners. It’s simple and fascinating to watch.

Take your cutting, ensuring it has a node.
Place the cutting in a jar or vase filled with room-temperature water. Submerge the node but keep the leaf above water.
Put the jar in a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can overheat the water.
Change the water every 5-7 days to keep it fresh and oxygenated.
Wait patiently! You should see small white roots beginning to sprout from the node in 2-4 weeks.
Once the roots are a few inches long (typically 3-5 inches), your cutting is ready to be potted in soil.

Method 2: Direct Soil Propagation

This method skips the water step and can sometimes lead to stronger roots adapted to soil from the start.

Prepare a small pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Moisten the soil slightly.
You can dip the cut end of your cutting, especially the node area, in rooting hormone. This step is optional but can speed things up.
Make a small hole in the soil and insert the cutting, burying the node. Gently firm the soil around it.
Water the soil lightly to settle it. Place the pot in a warm location with bright, indirect light.
Keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) for the first few weeks while roots establish. You can tent a clear plastic bag over the pot to create a humid environment—just air it out every couple days.
In about 4-6 weeks, give the cutting a very gentle tug. If you feel resistance, roots have formed.

Method 3: Sphagnum Moss Propagation

This method provides excellent moisture and air flow, encouraging robust root growth. It’s a great middle ground between water and soil.

Soak sphagnum moss in water until it’s fully hydrated, then squeeze out the excess so it’s damp, not dripping.
Take your cutting and wrap the node area in a handful of the damp moss.
You can secure the moss with plant ties, twine, or even place the whole bundle inside a clear plastic container or bag. The clear container lets light in and maintains humidity.
Keep the moss consistently damp by misting it regularly. Check it every few days.
Roots will grow into the moss. Once they are several inches long and visible through the moss, you can pot the entire bundle (moss and all) into a pot with soil.

Aftercare for Your New Monstera Plant

Once your propagated cutting has roots and is potted, it needs a bit of special care as it adjusts.

Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist for the first month. Then, you can switch to the typical monstera routine of watering when the top inch or two of soil feels dry.
Light: Continue to provide bright, indirect light. This fuels growth.
Support: As your new plant grows, it may benefit from a moss pole or stake to support its natural climbing habit.
Patience: Don’t expect rapid new leaf growth immediately. The plant is focusing it’s energy on building a strong root system in its new pot. A new leaf is a sign it’s settled in happily.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly. Here’s how to fix common issues.

Yellowing Leaves

If the leaf on your cutting turns yellow, don’t panic. It’s often the plant reallocating energy to root growth. If your cutting had multiple leaves, losing one is okay. If it’s the only leaf, ensure it’s getting enough light and check that the stem isn’t rotting.

Rotting Stem in Water

If the stem feels mushy or slimy, it’s starting to rot. This is usually due to bacteria in the water. Take the cutting out, cut off the rotten part (back to clean, firm stem), clean the jar, and refill with fresh water. Changing water weekly prevents this.

No Root Growth

If weeks pass and you see no roots, check your node. Was it included? Is the cutting getting warm enough? Roots develop faster in warmer conditions. Also, make sure the node is submerged (for water propagation) or in contact with the medium.

FAQ: Your Monstera Propagation Questions Answered

Can you propagate a monstera from a leaf?

No, you cannot propagate from just a leaf. You must have a piece of stem that includes a node. A leaf alone, even with a petiole (leaf stem), will not produce roots and a new plant.

How long does monstera propagation take?

In water, you might see initial roots in 2-3 weeks. In soil, it can take 4-6 weeks to establish enough roots to support the plant. The time varies based on season, temperature, and light.

What’s the best time of year to propagate monstera?

Spring and early summer are ideal. The plant is in its active growing season, with longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures, which encourages faster root development.

Why are aerial roots important for propagation?

Aerial roots often emerge from the node. When placed in water or soil, these aerial roots can easily convert into regular roots, giving your cutting a head start. They are a great sign you’ve chosen a good spot to cut.

Can I put multiple cuttings in one pot?

Yes! Planting several rooted cuttings in one larger pot is a fantastic way to create a fuller, bushier looking monstera from the beginning. Just make sure the pot has enough room for their roots to grow.

Propagating your monstera is a simple process that anyone can master. By following these clear steps, you can turn one beloved plant into many. Remember to start with a healthy cutting that includes a node, choose your preferred method, and provide a little patience. Soon, you’ll have thriving new monsteras to enjoy all over your home.