Propagation Tools & Supplies
Propagating houseplants is a rewarding and budget‑friendly way to expand your collection. Whether you’re rooting a pothos vine in water or taking leaf cuttings from African violets, having the right equipment increases your chances of success. Always start with healthy parent plants and sterilize tools to prevent disease — guidelines emphasised by both the Illinois Extension and Missouri Extension propagation guides.
Must‑have tools
| Tool | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp pruners or snips | Make clean cuts on stems or leaves | Sterilize blades with rubbing alcohol between plants |
| Rooting hormone (powder or gel) | Encourages root formation on difficult cuttings | Tap off excess; too much can inhibit rooting |
| Propagation station or jars | Hold cuttings in water or support them above soil | Use clear glass or specialized tubes to observe root growth |
| Humidity dome or plastic bag | Maintains high humidity around cuttings | Remove periodically to allow fresh air |
| Heat mat | Provides gentle bottom heat to speed rooting | Optional for tropical cuttings and seed starting |
| Mist sprayer | Keeps foliage moist and prevents wilting | Use clean water and mist lightly |
Cutting techniques
- Tip cuttings: Take a 3–5 inch shoot with several leaves, cut just below a node, remove the lower leaves and insert the cutting into moist potting mix.
- Leaf cuttings: For plants like begonias and African violets, slice a healthy leaf across a main vein and lay it on the soil.
- Water propagation: Many vining plants (pothos, philodendron) will root in a jar of water; change the water every few days.
- Division: Separate clumps of plants with multiple stems (e.g., peace lilies or snake plants) into smaller sections, each with roots.
For more propagation tips, read the Illinois Extension guide to plant propagation and the Missouri Extension cutting guide.
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