How to propagate plants from cuttings

From a single plant to dozens of new plants, for free.

Updated on 2026-07-17 · 5 min

Cutting propagation is one of the most rewarding moments of indoor gardening. From a single plant you can get dozens of new plants identical to the mother, in weeks.

The right moment

Spring–summer, when the plant is actively growing and has plenty of energy. In winter cuttings root much slower.

The perfect cut

Cut just below a node (the point a leaf emerges from). The node contains the cells that will become roots. Use sterile shears.

Water or soil?

Water: you see roots grow, easy to monitor. Soil: roots are already adapted to substrate, smoother transition. For Pothos, Philodendron, Monstera: water works perfectly.

Caring for cuttings

Bright indirect light, change water every 3–4 days, wait until roots reach 3–4 cm before potting into soil.