How to Propagate Split-Leaf Philodendrons
Split-leaf philodendron is one common name for Monstera deliciosa, a species of vine native to parts of Central America. The plant is named for the deep splits or slices found along the edge of each leaf, which lend the plant an exotic appearance. Like most tropical plants, split-leaf philodendron grows vigorously and will quickly reproduce through vegetative means such as rooted cuttings. Once potted in soil, the cutting will produce a viable root system within just a few weeks and will begin to put out leaves shortly thereafter, if it is provided with warmth, light, and moderate humidity.
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Things You`ll Need
- Floral snips or scissors
- Rubbing alcohol
- Garden gloves
- Large, plastic pot
- Potting soil
- Shredded bark
- Sharp river sand
- Plant mister
Wipe the blades of a pair of floral snips or small scissors with rubbing alcohol before you use them on the split-leaf philodendron plant. Sanitizing the blades helps keep the plant healthy by lessening the chance of infection.
Look around the base of a mature, vigorous split-leaf philodendron for a healthy offshoot no taller than 6 to 8 inches. Find one with two leaf nodes and small, immature leaves that are just beginning to unfurl.
Put on a pair of garden gloves before you take the cutting. Cut the stem of the split-leaf philodendron offshoot using floral snips. Make the cut flush with the soil. Set the cutting into a bowl of water to keep it cool and hydrated while you prepare the rooting pot.
Fill a large, plastic pot with a mixture of 3 parts potting soil, 1 part shredded bark, and 1 part sharp river sand. Moisten the soil with 1 or 2 cups of water.
Insert the bottom half of the split-leaf philodendron cutting into the pot of soil. Make sure the soil is pressed firmly against the stem so no air is trapped against it. Drizzle 1 or 2 tbsp. of water around the cutting to settle the soil around it.
Set the potted split-leaf philodendron cutting somewhere warm and bright, such as near a window or outdoors in a sheltered spot. Keep the soil moist. Spray the cutting with a plant mister at least twice a day to maintain humidity around the leaves.
Video: How To Grow Philodendron - Growing Guide
Video: Propagating ZZ Plants/ Money Plants/ Monstera Deliciosa By Stem Cutting
Check for roots in 30 to 45 days by gently trying to lift the cutting from the soil. Resistance to movement strongly suggests the cutting has rooted.
Keep the split-leaf philodendron in its rooting pot for one year before you transplant it into a larger pot or outdoors in a permanent bed.
Tips & Warnings
- Split-leaf philodendrons will grow outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 10a to 11.
- Wear gloves when handling split-leaf philodendron plants since they contain a toxic level of oxalic acid, which will cause skin irritation, as well as gastrointestinal distress, if consumed.