3 Ways to Propagate a Split-Leaf Philodendron at Home

Prayer plants, or Maranta leuconeura, are popular houseplants known for their exquisite beauty and intricate leaf patterns. They are often used to enhance indoor spaces and bring a touch of natural elegance to any room. In this introduction, we will uncover the secrets to rapidly growing your very own stunning prayer plant with three simple methods that you can easily implement in the comfort of your home.

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The Split-leaf Philodendron, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a popular houseplant known for its decorative and air-purifying qualities. Besides its aesthetic appeal, the Split-leaf Philodendron is a favorite among plant enthusiasts due to its ease of care and propagation. Here are three simple and quick methods to grow your own Split-leaf Philodendron at home.

1 Propagating the Monstera from Seeds

Propagation Method

The first step when propagating from seeds is to source high-quality seeds. It is recommended to purchase seeds from reputable sellers to ensure their viability. Once you have your seeds, follow these steps:

  • Place the seeds about ⅓ inch (8.5mm) deep into a nutritious soil mix.
  • Lightly cover the seeds with more soil.

Repot individual Split-leaf Philodendron plants for better growth

  • Maintain moderate moisture levels in the soil by watering regularly.
  • Keep the soil temperature between 20-23°C (68-73°F) for 2-8 weeks until germination occurs.
  • Once the seedlings have grown and developed some strength, repot them into individual containers to encourage healthy growth.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Propagating the Monstera from seeds is a low-maintenance and simple method. It does not require advanced techniques, making it ideal for beginners.

Propagating Split-leaf Philodendron from seeds requires attention to seed density and planting depth

Cons: Seed density and planting depth are critical factors in this method. Incorrect techniques can affect the quality and quantity of seedlings. Additionally, seedlings are more susceptible to pest damage.

2 Propagating the Monstera by Separating Offshoots

Propagation Method

Separating offshoots, also known as cutting, involves removing a portion of the plant that has already developed roots and using it to grow a new plant. The offshoots should have at least 2-3 roots that are 3-4cm long. Here’s how to propagate the Monstera using this method:

  • Cut below the roots of the offshoot by 1-1.5cm.
  • Apply a mixture of honey and Ridomil to the cut area.
  • Prepare a growing medium by mixing coconut fiber powder, live ash, and rice husk ash in a 6:3:1 ratio.

Cutting position for separating offshoots

  • Plant the offshoot into the growing medium, ensuring it stands upright.
  • Cover the roots with soil up to the base of the plant, and gently compact the soil.
  • Place the plant in a shaded area (50-60% shade) and use a hanging rack.
  • For the first three months, regularly fertilize with Dynamic fertilizer. Alternatively, you can soak oil cakes in water and use the diluted solution to water the plant.
  • From the fourth month onwards, apply 50-70g of NPK 20-20-15 fertilizer per plant. Use Chitosan at a concentration of 0.2% to prevent pests and promote growth.

Pros and Cons

Pros: The main advantage of this method is the high success rate. It also requires fewer cuttings, and you have better control over the planting density, spacing, and depth.

Propagating Split-leaf Philodendron from offshoots requires advanced gardening techniques

Cons: This method demands advanced gardening skills and a significant investment of time and effort.

3 Propagating the Monstera by Air-layering

Propagation Method

If you don’t have access to seeds or rooted offshoots, you can use the air-layering technique to propagate the Monstera. Here’s how:

  • Choose a mature branch of the Split-leaf Philodendron and cut it halfway through at a 45-degree angle. If the cut is deep, you can support the branch with a stake.
  • Insert a small piece of plastic into the cut.

Use moist moss to cover the cut area

  • Wrap the cut area with moist moss and secure it with plastic wrap and string to hold the moss in place.
  • Wait for two weeks for roots to develop at the cut site.
  • Once the roots are strong and long enough, cut the branch about 2.5cm from the air-layered section.
  • Remove the plastic wrap and plant the rooted branch into a potting container, ensuring proper drainage and regular watering.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Plants propagated through air-layering tend to have better growth, rapid development, higher adaptability, and retain the characteristics of the parent plant.

Split-leaf Philodendrons propagated by air-layering have better growth and development

Cons: This method should only be used sparingly as the quality of the plants may deteriorate over multiple generations. Additionally, the lack of taproots makes the plants more susceptible to breakage.

The above methods offer unique advantages and disadvantages. We hope that you can find the most suitable approach to growing your own Split-leaf Philodendron. Good luck with your gardening journey!

Frequently asked questions

A split-leaf philodendron, also known as a monstera deliciosa, is a popular houseplant known for its unique, large, heart-shaped leaves with deep splits and holes. You can propagate this plant at home through three main methods: node cutting and air layering, which are suitable for plants with stems, and plant division, which is better for more mature plants.

Node cutting involves cutting a piece of stem with at least one node, which is where the roots will grow from. Cut just below a node, and then place the cutting in water or a growing medium like perlite or vermiculite. Ensure the node is submerged or covered, and change the water regularly. Roots should start to develop within a few weeks.

Air layering is a technique where you encourage roots to grow from a node on the stem while the plant is still attached to the mother plant. Identify a node and scrape away the bark in that area. Then, wrap the node with moist sphagnum moss and cover it with plastic wrap to hold moisture. Roots will start to form within a few weeks, and once they’re a few inches long, you can cut the rooted layer and plant it in a growing medium.

Plant division is ideal for mature split-leaf philodendrons with multiple stems and a dense root system. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and use your hands or a knife to separate the roots and stems into two or more sections, ensuring each division has roots and leaves. Then, pot each division in fresh, well-draining soil.

Ensure your new plant receives bright, indirect sunlight and maintain moderate humidity levels. Water the plant regularly but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering. You can also add a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
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