If you’re wondering how you can create more Monstera Deliciosa in your home, you can simply propagate the current one you have! But how do you do that?
Propagate Monstera Deliciosa by collecting healthy stem cuttings with at least 2-3 nodes. Place them in rooting mediums, allowing roots to develop from the node, before it’s ready to be transferred to its own pot. Ensure the cuttings get indirect sunlight, high humidity, and consistent watering for best growth.
Below, I elaborate more on the propagation steps for a Monstera Deliciosa, alternative methods, common propagation problems and the aftercare to ensure its continual growth:
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How to Propagate Monstera Deliciosa?
Propagating this plant is relatively straightforward, and there are several methods to do so, such as layering, air-layering, division, and stem cuttings. In this case, we’ll only be talking about stem cutting propagation because it’s the most reliable way to get more Monstera Deliciosas.
If you’d like to know more about the other forms of propagation, you can read more about them in our Ultimate Propagation article!
When to propagate Monstera Deliciosa?
It’s ideal to propagate Monstera Deliciosa in spring and summer, during its active growing season. This ensures the plant has enough energy to produce new roots and grow successfully. Apart from that, it also allows the mother plant to recover and develop new growth once you’ve taken a cutting from it.
Where to cut Monstera Deliciosa for propagation?
Here’s how to select a healthy stem cutting on a Monstera Deliciosa:
- Choose a stem with at least two to three leaves, an aerial root, and 2-3 nodes.
- Make a clean cut below a node (the small bump on the stem where leaves and aerial roots grow). The lower node is where we want to encourage new roots to grow from the cutting. Ensure to use a sharp, sterilized pair of scissors or pruning shears.
And voila! You have your stem cutting ready to be rooted.
How to root a Monstera Deliciosa cutting?
Once you’ve acquired a few stem cuttings, the next step is to place it in a rooting medium to encourage rooting. Here’s how to do just that:
1. Add rooting hormone on the cut end and lower node of the cutting. This can be an optional step but it’s highly recommended to ensure guaranteed rooting.
2. Place the cutting in a moist rooting medium, ensuring only the lower node is buried. You can use any rooting medium such as perlite, vermiculite, or potting soil. But most people go for perlite because it holds water best while providing adequate air circulation for the cutting.
3. Spray the rooting medium regularly to keep it constantly damp for the cutting.
4. Keep the cutting in a bright, indirect room. (Optional) Place a translucent plastic bag over the cutting, ensuring the bag doesn’t touch the leaves to increase its humidity levels.
Gently lift the cutting up once a week to see if it has started to sprout roots. If it hasn’t, put it back and continue letting it develop. If it has roots and they are 2-3 inches long, it’s time to transplant it to a small pot with fresh, damp soil.
You may be wondering why I didn’t mention rooting the cutting in water, since that’s what most people do. Yes, it’s certainly one of the most common ways of propagating plants. But it doesn’t necessarily work for all types.
This is simply because the roots that do grow in the water are weaker and different than those grown in the above mentioned rooting mediums. Moreover, when you transplant these water roots to fresh soil, the cutting will have to grow new roots to adjust to its new surroundings. This may lead to your cutting looking quite stressed for a while before it starts to display new growth. So it’s a bit of a hit or miss with some plants.
But if you still prefer using the water propagation method, you can follow the following steps below:
How to propagate Monstera Deliciosa in water?
After acquiring the plant’s stem cutting, here’s what you need to do to propagate it in water:
1. (Optional) Add some rooting hormone into a jar of water and mix thoroughly.
2. Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the lower node is submerged. Ensure to keep the leaves and aerial root above water.
3. Keep the jar in a location with bright, indirect light. Change the water every week to keep it fresh. In a few weeks, you should notice roots starting to grow from the node.
4. Once the roots are about 1 inch long, transplant the cutting into a moist potting soil, ensuring the roots are covered. Water the soil thoroughly and place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light.
But what if you don’t have a stem cutting? Maybe you’re eyeing that big, gorgeous Monstera Deliciosa leaf and wondering, hmm can I just propagate the leaf? Surely it has enough energy reserves to grow roots. Well …
How to propagate Monstera Deliciosa from a leaf?
It’s not possible to propagate Monstera Deliciosa from its leaf because it doesn’t have a node where new growth can develop from. Nodes are important to encourage rooting, so without it, you won’t get a new plant out of just one leaf. But you can grow it in water for the aesthetics – just don’t expect it to grow at all.
Or maybe you’re someone who is not keen on cutting up your Monstera Deliciosa’s stems, especially when it’s taken you this long to grow them! In that case, I proposed dividing the plant instead …
How to divide a Monstera Deliciosa?
Here’s how to carefully divide a mature Monstera Deliciosa:
1. Separate a mature Monstera Deliciosa into sections – from its roots to its connected stem and leaves. There should be enough roots for each stem so they can develop well in their new home. But you’ll have to be patient throughout the process to minimize root and stem damage.
2. Once successfully divided, plant each section into its own pot with moist, fresh soil. It’s worth noting that you cannot do this with young Monstera Deliciosa as they wouldn’t have grown enough roots and stems yet necessary for divisions.
But wait, doesn’t a Monstera Deliciosa produce offshoots, otherwise known as babies or pups which you can easily pluck off and plant in their own pots? I hate to burst your bubble but …
How to propagate Monstera Deliciosa’s babies/pups?
It’s not possible to propagate Monstera Deliciosa babies/pups because they do not produce them at all. They initially grow from seeds and continually branch out from the main plant’s stem. You’re better off propagating Monstera Deliciosa by taking a healthy stem cutting from the many branches it has produced.
How do Monstera Deliciosa reproduce?
Monstera Deliciosa primarily reproduces vegetatively, developing new growth from the parent plant’s stems. In the wild, it will produce fruits where its seeds can be scattered and develop into new plants. But this is unlikely to happen in indoor settings.
Troubleshooting Common Propagation Problems
Even though propagating a Monstera Deliciosa is fairly easy, there are some common problems that can arise during the process. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:
- Poor root development – roots become brown and soft. The cutting may be suffering from root rot due to overwatering, inadequate drainage, or bacterial growth. However, if the stem is already soft and rotting, it may be too late to salvage the cutting.
- Solution: Cut off the node with the rotten roots and repeat the rooting process again with the next node on the stem. Remove one of the plant’s leaves if necessary so it doesn’t get submerged in the rooting medium. This time, lightly water the cutting only. If it’s in water, change the water more frequently.
- No growth after several weeks. The cutting might not be receiving adequate light and water.
- Solution: Move the cutting to a location with bright, indirect light. Change up its water frequency to regular spraying to keep it just damp enough so the rooting medium doesn’t dry out.
Why did my attempt to propagate variegated Monstera Deliciosa fail, and how can I improve my success rate?
Variegated Monstera Deliciosa are generally harder to propagate because the plant doesn’t deem it beneficial for its overall health. This is because the cream/white/yellow variegation does not contain chlorophyll, which means it won’t photosynthesize. This is why variegated plants are costly because they are notoriously difficult to propagate.
A good tip to ensure successful propagation is to have a good balance of variegated and non-variegated leaves on the stem cutting. This also includes ensuring the best care for the cutting, including sufficient light, humidity levels, and water. But fair warning, it is entirely possible that your cutting will develop green leaves first before producing any variegated leaf so patience is key.
How to Grow a Monstera Deliciosa from Cuttings to Full-sized Plants
After you’ve taken your cutting and successfully rooted it, it’s now time to transplant it into its own little pot. It’s a pretty easy process and I elaborate each step below for your perusal.
How to repot a Monstera Deliciosa?
When transplanting or repotting a Monstera Deliciosa, whether its a rooted cutting or an older plant, the process is similar. Here’s how to get started:
- Choose a pot that’s 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
- Remove the plant or cutting gently from its current pot.
- Fill the new pot with fresh potting mix.
- Place the plant in the center and fill around it with soil, pressing down gently to eliminate air pockets.
- Water the plant thoroughly after repotting.
When to repot a Monstera Deliciosa?
Repot a Monstera Deliciosa every 1-3 years in spring or summer, when the plant outgrows its current pot. Avoid repotting the plant in fall and winter as this is when the plant’s growth slows down and eventually goes into dormancy. Additionally, don’t wait until the plant is rootbound to do this as this may stunt its growth.
How often to water Monstera Deliciosa?
Water lightly every 2-3 days if it’s a newly transplanted Monstera Deliciosa cutting. When it’s a fully grown plant, it’s best to water once every 1-2 weeks. When in doubt, it’s best to water the plant when the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Don’t overwater as this can only lead to root rot, especially after all that hard work.
How fast does a Monstera Deliciosa grow?
Monstera Deliciosa grows about 1-2 feet per year. In ideal conditions, you can expect it to grow a few inches every month during its active growth phase in spring and summer. As a cutting, once it’s established, prepare to see it rapidly develop in the next few months. Soon, you’ll have to repot it into another pot to support its expanding growth!
How tall can Monstera Deliciosa grow?
Monstera Deliciosa can grow more than 50 feet tall in its natural habitat. However, as a houseplant, it typically reaches a height of 8-10 feet in optimal conditions. Whether it reaches those heights or not, it’s highly recommended to use a moss totem pole as a trellis support for its upward growth.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is it possible to cultivate Monstera Deliciosa from a cutting?
Monstera Deliciosa can be propagated from a stem cutting. Simply cut a stem with at least 2 nodes and 3 leaves, placing it in water, soil, perlite or other rooting mediums. Ensure it’s kept in indirect light and maintain consistent moisture. Roots should develop in a few weeks, after which it can be potted in moist soil.
Which is more effective for Monstera Deliciosa propagation: water or soil?
Propagating Monstera Deliciosa is more effective in soil than water. This is because roots grown in water are weaker than in soil, even though it’s easier to observe if there’s any root development. Soil propagation provides a more natural environment, promoting stronger root growth. Alternatively, one can root cuttings in perlite or vermiculite instead.
At which point should you make a cut on Monstera Deliciosa for propagation purposes?
Make a cut just below a node (the small bump or nub) on a stem with 2-3 nodes and leaves, plus an aerial root. The extra nodes can be a backup plan for when the lower node fails to develop roots. It’s preferable to take a cutting during spring and summer when the plant is actively growing, but most tend to do it anytime.
Can a Monstera Deliciosa leaf be used for propagation?
It’s not recommended to propagate a Monstera Deliciosa’s leaf because it doesn’t have a node. This is a crucial growth point where roots and new leaves emerge. Simply placing a leaf without a node in water or soil will not result in a new plant.
Can Monstera Deliciosa cuttings be rooted in water?
Monstera Deliciosa cuttings can be rooted in water. However, it requires frequent water change to ensure no bacterial growth on the cutting. Simply place the cutting with a node submerged in water, ensuring leaves remain above the surface. However, it’s worth noting that these water roots are different from roots grown in soil, so it may take a while before the cutting becomes established once transplanted.
How much time does it take for a Monstera Deliciosa to establish roots in water?
Monstera Deliciosa often takes 3-6 weeks to establish roots in water. However, the exact time can vary based on factors like water quality, temperature, and light exposure. Regularly changing the water, adding rooting hormone, and providing indirect sunlight can promote faster rooting.
References:
- Environmental Horticulture Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. (1999). Monstera deliciosa. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/database/documents/pdf/shrub_fact_sheets/mondela.pdf
- Henn, L. (n.d.). How to propagate houseplants by cuttings. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/how-propagate-houseplants-cuttings
- Henn, L. (n.d.). How to propagate houseplants with stem tip cuttings. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/how-propagate-houseplants-stem-tip-cuttings
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Peace lily. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b568
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Monstera deliciosa. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/monstera-deliciosa/
- University of Connecticut Home & Garden Education Center. (n.d.). Monstera deliciosa. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://homegarden.cahnr.uconn.edu/factsheets/monstera-deliciosa/
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Monstera deliciosa. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/HS311
- University of Hawaii at Manoa. (n.d.). Ornamental foliage plants for the lowland tropics. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/oc/freepubs/pdf/OF-5.pdf
- University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Propagating Monstera deliciosa. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://extension.umn.edu/houseplants/propagating-monstera-deliciosa
