The Monstera deliciosa, often called the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a sought-after houseplant known for its large, dramatic leaves. Like many vining tropical plants, Monstera produces thick aerial roots that cling to surfaces for support, mimicking its natural climbing habit. These roots also absorb moisture and nutrients directly from the humid air. While propagation is possible from a cutting, the process cannot be initiated by using an aerial root alone. Propagation requires the specific growth point of the plant, which is not found in the root tissue.
Understanding the Difference Between Aerial Roots and Nodes
Successful propagation hinges entirely on the presence of a node, not just an aerial root. A node is the slightly raised junction on the stem where the petiole, or leaf stalk, attaches. This area contains meristematic tissue, the plant’s growth engine, which holds the dormant axillary bud that will sprout a new shoot and the cells necessary to form new roots.
The aerial root emerges from the node but lacks the ability to independently generate a new plant. While an existing aerial root on a cutting can speed up the rooting process, the node is mandatory. A cutting without a node, such as a single leaf, will never develop into a full plant and will eventually rot. The node is the source of new life, while the aerial root is designed for support and atmospheric absorption.
Making the Correct Cut for Propagation
When selecting a cutting, ensure it contains at least one node, which often has an aerial root or the slight bump where one would emerge. It is recommended to select a piece that also includes one healthy leaf. This allows the cutting to perform photosynthesis and gather energy while it develops roots. Use a sharp, sterilized cutting tool, such as pruning shears or a razor blade, to prevent introducing pathogens.
Make the cut along the stem (the internode) about one to two inches below the chosen node. This provides enough stem material to anchor the cutting and offers a buffer zone against potential rot. If the cutting has a long aerial root, you can trim it back slightly, but the node must remain intact. Cutting below the node activates the meristematic tissue to begin the rooting process.
Rooting Medium Options and Techniques
Once you have a viable cutting, choose a medium to encourage root development. Water propagation is a popular method, offering a clear view of the new white roots as they emerge. The benefit of using water is the ease of maintenance, requiring only that the water is changed every few days to keep it fresh. However, water-developed roots are structurally different from soil roots and may experience “shock” when transferred to a potting mix.
Substrate propagation uses mediums like sphagnum moss or perlite, providing a more natural environment for root growth. Sphagnum moss holds moisture while allowing air circulation, minimizing the risk of rot. Perlite, a lightweight volcanic glass, ensures high aeration. Regardless of the medium, the cutting needs a consistently warm environment and bright, indirect light. Adding a rooting hormone powder or gel to the cut end can stimulate faster root production.
Transitioning the New Plant
The final stage involves moving the newly rooted cutting into a permanent potting mix. Wait until the new roots are at least two to three inches long before potting. If the roots are too short, the cutting may not have enough capacity to absorb the necessary moisture from the soil.
A chunky, well-draining aroid mix is ideal for Monsteras, often containing ingredients like orchid bark, perlite, and potting soil. After potting, saturate the soil until water drains freely from the bottom to help the new roots settle and eliminate air pockets. Because the roots are accustomed to a wet environment, the newly potted plant should be kept slightly more moist than a mature plant for the first week or two to ease the adaptation process.