How to Propagate Monstera the Right Way

There are over 50 species of Monstera plants to choose from, but one of the most beloved types is the Monstera deliciosa. This tropical plant is known for its gorgeous, giant, vibrant green leaves adorned with distinct holes, which is why it’s also called the “Swiss cheese” plant. If you already have a Monstera and want to add more to your houseplant collection or give one to a fellow plant lover, you can propagate it yourself.

However, it’s vital to know how to propagate Monstera plants correctly to prevent damage to the mother plant and ensure the cuttings grow healthy roots. We spoke with Horticulturist and botanical designer Nathan Heinrich for the best methods to successfully propagate Monstera plants.

How to Prepare Your Cuttings to Propagate Monstera Plants

Heinrich says there are two main ways to successfully multiply your Monstera plant. The first method is by “water rooting”. The second method is by starting cuttings in “rooting medium.”

However, no matter what propagation method you choose, the cuttings are prepared the same way. Take the following steps to properly prepare your Monstera cuttings:

Step 1: Ensure the Plant is Healthy

“Starting with a healthy Monstera plant that has sturdy stems and deep-green foliage is essential. A weakened plant, with an insect infestation or disease, will lead to unhealthy new plants,” he informs. If your plant is struggling, then you will want to get it healthy before proceeding with propagation. 

Step 2: Pick a Spot to Prune

Heinrich says the next step is to remove the section of stem, from the mother plant, that you feel won’t leave the original plant looking too butchered or without the ability to recover.

“There should ideally be at least three leaves left on the mother plant after you have pruned off the section that you plan to use to propagate into new plants,” he informs. 

Step 3: Clip Your Cuttings Correctly

Heinrich states that for a cutting or section of the stem to be successfully transformed into a new plant, it must have one essential component, at least one leaf node. A node is a point on the stem of a plant where a leaf is growing or where it can grow from. Nodes without existing leaves can be identified by a slight bulge or a leaf scar. From each cutting, that will grow into a new plant, roots, stems, and leaves will emerge.

“I like to have a minimum of two nodes per cutting—the bottom node from which roots will grow, and the top node from which new leaves and stems will grow,” he says.

He continues, “Ideally, each cutting will already have a leaf growing from it, and in some cases, you may be fortunate enough to have an ‘air root’ growing out of the bottom of your cutting. If the air root is very long, you can trim it back to any length necessary to fit it into your propagation container.”

You should make your cut 1/2″ below the bottom node or air root and a half inch above the top leaf node. Heinrich explains that there is often a slight bulge on the stem above the point where the leaf grows from the stem. This is a dormant stem bud from which new stems and leaves will eventually burst forth.

“Under no circumstances should you damage this dormant bud by cutting through it. Once you have located the bulge where the dormant bud is located, carefully cut 1/2″ above it,” he instructs. 

How to Propagate Monstera Plants in Water 

One of the simplest ways to propagate your Monstera plant is in water. Follow these key steps for water propagation:

Step 1: Put Cuttings in Water with Lots of Light

Heinrich says that once you have prepared your cuttings, which you plan to root in water, you should quickly place them in the watertight container of your choice.

“Place the container with your Monstera cuttings in a bright sunny place in your home.  Avoid putting it in a hot window where the leaves may get scorched if they come in contact with the hot glass,” he advises.  

Step 2: Change Water as Needed

Heinrich says you need to keep in mind that if you root your cuttings in a clear glass vessel, you may end up with an accumulation of algae growing on the walls of the container. To combat this, you will want to clean the water occasionally.

“To avoid algae growth, you can put the cuttings in an opaque container that does not allow light to shine on the water. Do not add any fertilizer or anything else to the water while the roots are growing,” he advises. 

Step 3: Transplant Cutting into Soil

“Once your cutting has several roots that are at least two inches in length, you can transplant it to a pot with potting soil. You will want to be extremely careful with the roots as they can be brittle and break easily,” he informs.

Next, you should stake the cutting with a bamboo stake and keep the soil well moistened while the roots transition from water to soil.

How to Propagate Monstera Plants Using Root Medium 

Another common way to propagate Monstera is using root medium. One perk of using this method is it can reduce the risk of root rot. Follow these simple steps to ensure you propagate your Monstera plant like a pro:

Step 1: Prepare Your Container

Fill a container that has drainage holes with the rooting medium. Heinrich says you should use a rooting medium that can hold moisture and hold the cutting in place while providing plenty of air circulation. Sphagnum moss, perlite mix, and aerated potting soil all make excellent options for rooting Monstera cuttings. 

Step 2: Place Cuttings in the Pot

The next step is to place the prepared cuttings into the root medium. It is ideal to have cuttings with air roots already started. Heinrich says you will want to keep the rooting medium moist but not soggy.  

Step 3: Transplant into Larger Container 

“Once your Monstera cuttings have rooted well, they can be transplanted into a larger container with a high-quality houseplant potting soil,” he says. Cuttings typically take two to four weeks to grow healthy roots.

“As Monstera are tropical plants, native to warm climates with lots of rain and humidity, they like to be watered regularly. Allow the soil to nearly dry out between waterings and place them in a part of your home that gets plenty of indirect light,” he advises.