So, you’re already the proud parent of a *Monstera deliciosa*? That’s awesome! These iconic plants are total showstoppers, and the best part is that you can easily grow brand-new baby Monsteras using just a single leaf or a stem cutting. Propagation is usually a breeze with these guys.
Plus, if you’re patient, your Swiss Cheese Plant might even reward you with some delicious, edible fruit down the road!
Propagating with Leaf Cuttings
To grow a new plant from a leaf, you’ll need a healthy, mature Monstera to take a tip cutting from. Spring is hands-down the best time to do this. Since the plant is just about to hit its main growing season, it’s primed to sprout roots much faster. To get your new Monstera started, just follow these simple steps:
- Snip off a leaf along with its stem and at least one aerial root.
- Let the cut end air-dry (callous over) for about an hour.
- Prep a pot with a mix of peat and sand, seed-starting mix, or coconut coir.
- Plant your cutting with the aerial root tucked into the soil and give it a good drink.
- To create a mini-greenhouse, stick a couple of wooden stakes on either side of the cutting and drape a clear plastic bag over the top.
- That warm, humid microclimate under the bag will jumpstart root development and new growth.
Growing Multiple Monsteras from Stem Cuttings
If you have a leafless, non-woody section of the vine, don’t toss it! This is called a stem cutting. These sections have “dormant buds” (also known as “sleeping eyes”) instead of leaves. You can spot these as little round bumps along the stem. If you want to grow several baby Monsteras at once, here’s the game plan:
- Find a section of the stem that has several dormant buds.
- Cut the stem into smaller segments, making sure each piece has at least one “eye.”
- Prepare a small pot with a light, nutrient-poor seed-starting mix for each piece.
- Mist the soil with filtered or lime-free water.
- Lay the stem cutting on top of the soil and press it down gently.
- Make sure the dormant bud is facing upward!
- Place your pots in a propagation tray or cover them with a plastic bag.
- Don’t forget to lift the cover every now and then to let in some fresh air—this prevents mold from crashing the party.
