The Monstera, often called the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a highly sought-after houseplant known for its tropical nature and vigorous growth. Propagation by stem cutting is the most reliable method to multiply this plant. Successfully growing a new Monstera begins with selecting and preparing the perfect piece of the parent plant.
Selecting and Preparing the Ideal Cutting
Propagation success depends entirely on the location of the cut, which must include a node. A node is a slightly swollen area on the stem where new leaves and roots naturally emerge. A viable cutting should have at least one leaf attached to facilitate photosynthesis and provide energy for the rooting process.
Before making a cut, sterilize your sharp knife or pruning shears to prevent transmitting disease to the parent plant and the new cutting. The precise point for severance is typically one to two inches below the chosen node. If the cutting has more than one leaf, carefully remove any lower leaves that would be submerged in the rooting medium.
Removing the lower foliage prevents the plant material from rotting when exposed to constant moisture. This preparation ensures the cutting’s energy is channeled into developing new roots. Once prepared, the cutting is ready to be placed in a chosen rooting environment.
Techniques for Successful Rooting
Growers commonly choose between water and a solid substrate for rooting Monstera cuttings. Water propagation is popular because it allows visual monitoring of new root development. To use this method, submerge the node in a clear container of water, ensuring the leaf petiole remains above the water line, and place it in bright, indirect light. Refresh the water every few days to maintain oxygen levels and minimize bacterial buildup.
A drawback of this method is that the plant develops “water roots,” which are structurally adapted to their aquatic environment and can struggle when moved to a soil mixture. Alternatively, propagating in a solid substrate like sphagnum moss or perlite often yields stronger, more robust roots. Sphagnum moss offers excellent moisture retention while still allowing for necessary air circulation around the developing roots.
When using moss, ensure it is thoroughly moistened but not saturated, as excessive wetness can lead to rot. Gently nestle the node into the damp moss and place the container in a warm location, ideally with high ambient humidity. Roots grown in this medium are considered better prepared for the transition to a chunky potting mix, as they are already accustomed to a solid substrate.
Transplanting the Rooted Cutting and Establishing the New Plant
The moment for transplanting is when the new roots are approximately two to three inches long. Waiting too long, until the roots are excessively long, can make the transition more challenging, particularly for cuttings rooted in water. These water-grown roots are sensitive and must quickly adapt to a terrestrial environment to avoid shock.
The potting medium for the newly established plant must be well-draining to prevent the roots from suffocating or developing rot. A successful mix for Monstera is often termed an “aroid mix,” consisting of components like orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. This porous blend ensures rapid drainage and high air porosity, necessary for healthy root function.
When potting, the stem and the petiole of the leaf must remain positioned above the soil line to prevent moisture from compromising the plant’s structure. Immediately after planting, water the cutting thoroughly until the excess drains from the bottom, which helps settle the potting medium around the delicate new roots. The newly potted Monstera should be placed in a location receiving bright, indirect light, and the soil should be kept consistently moist for the initial adjustment period.