The Monstera deliciosa, often called the Swiss cheese plant, is a highly sought-after houseplant known for its large, glossy leaves and distinctive natural perforations. Propagating this plant allows enthusiasts to create entirely new specimens from a piece of the parent plant. Planting a cutting directly into soil bypasses the need for later transplanting, resulting in a more robust root system less susceptible to transplant shock. This method ensures the new plant immediately adapts to its permanent growing medium.
Selecting and Preparing the Cutting
Successful propagation relies on taking a cutting that includes a node, which is the slightly swollen area on the stem where a leaf, aerial root, or new growth bud emerges. Without this specific growth point, the cutting will not develop new roots and will eventually fail. Locate a healthy stem with at least one leaf and make a clean cut approximately one to two inches below the node.
The tools used for cutting must be sharp and sterilized, such as clean shears or a knife, to ensure a precise cut and prevent the introduction of pathogens. If the cutting includes an existing aerial root, keep it intact, as it will aid in the speed of new root formation.
Before planting, consider applying a rooting hormone powder to the cut end and the node. This hormone stimulates cell division, promoting faster and denser root development, although Monstera will often root successfully without it. To apply, moisten the cut end slightly and dip it into the powder, ensuring the node is well-coated.
Soil Mix and Planting
The correct soil composition is fundamental for a Monstera cutting’s survival and subsequent growth, requiring a mix that mimics the aeration of its natural tropical habitat. A standard potting mix is often too dense, so it must be amended heavily to ensure excellent drainage and prevent waterlogging, which is a common cause of failure.
An ideal blend includes a base of potting soil mixed with coarse, airy components like perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir. A mixture of 50% potting soil, 30% perlite or bark, and 20% coir provides the necessary balance of moisture retention and air pockets for the developing roots.
The container must have adequate drainage holes; small pots are generally recommended for cuttings to avoid excessive, unused soil that can hold too much moisture.
To plant, fill the container with the prepared, slightly moistened mix, then create a shallow hole in the center. Insert the cutting so that the node is fully buried beneath the soil surface. Gently firm the soil around the stem to secure the cutting in place without compressing the medium too tightly, allowing the roots space to breathe.
Ensuring Root Growth
After planting, the initial watering should be thorough to settle the soil around the cutting, allowing all excess moisture to drain completely. The new cutting requires a warm location with bright, indirect light to fuel the photosynthesis necessary for root generation. Direct midday sun should be avoided as it can scorch the tender leaves.
Reduce watering frequency after the first week, allowing the top one to two inches of the soil to dry out before watering again. This prevents the delicate new roots from rotting while maintaining enough moisture for growth.
Monstera cuttings benefit from increased atmospheric humidity, ideally between 40% and 60%. This can be achieved by placing the pot near a humidifier or covering it with a clear plastic dome to create a mini-greenhouse.
New root formation typically begins within several weeks. However, new leaf growth may not appear for two to three months, requiring patience while the plant focuses its energy beneath the soil.