The Tradescantia, commonly known as Wandering Jew, is a resilient houseplant that can be easily propagated and maintained in water. This vining plant is known for its fast growth and colorful foliage, and its stems readily produce roots when submerged. While water propagation is often a temporary step before moving a plant to soil, Tradescantia cuttings can survive and thrive long-term in a water-based environment with consistent care. This method allows for a clear view of the root development process and is an excellent way to multiply your plant collection.
Selecting and Preparing Cuttings
Begin by selecting a healthy stem from the parent plant that is robust and free of damage. Use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or shears to ensure a clean cut that prevents crushing the plant tissue. Aim for a cutting that is three to four inches long and possesses several leaves.
Make the cut just below a leaf node, which is the joint on the stem where a leaf attaches and where root development is concentrated. Roots will emerge directly from these submerged nodes. All leaves that would sit below the water line must be carefully removed, as submerged leaves quickly rot. Rotting leaves contaminate the water and introduce bacteria that can cause the cutting to decay.
Maintaining Growth in a Water Environment
Place the water container in a location that receives bright, indirect light to encourage healthy root growth. Direct sun exposure can cause leaves to burn and may also promote excessive algae growth. A north or east-facing window is often ideal, providing sufficient light without intense afternoon heat.
Routine water changes are necessary to keep the environment clean and oxygenated. Replace the water completely at least once a week to prevent stagnation and the buildup of microorganisms. For long-term growth, the plant requires nutrients that plain water does not provide. Add a highly diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer to the fresh water every month or so to sustain the plant’s nutritional needs.
Common Issues and Moving to Soil
Stem rot, appearing as a brown or mushy base on the cutting, is a frequent problem in water propagation. This usually occurs when leaves are left submerged or when insufficient water changes allow bacteria to flourish. Algae growth is another common issue, which can be minimized by avoiding direct sunlight and maintaining a consistent weekly water change schedule.
Once the roots have developed a robust network, typically reaching one to two inches in length, the cutting is ready for transition into soil. Water-grown roots are structurally different from soil-grown roots, making the transition a delicate process requiring initial moisture. Plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil. The soil must be kept consistently moist for the first few weeks to allow the water-adapted roots to adjust to their new medium and avoid transplant shock.