Propagating philodendron

Philodendron, whether the common heartleaf variety or one of its many relatives, is one of the easiest houseplants to propagate. The method that works best is genuinely a matter of some disagreement even among professionals, which is worth knowing before picking one and assuming it's the only right way.

Water vs. soil: the honest answer

Both methods work reliably. Costa Farms horticulturist Justin Hancock has noted a preference for soil propagation and limited success with water, while plenty of hobbyists root philodendron in water constantly with no trouble. The likely explanation isn't that one method is objectively better, it's that small differences in light, temperature, and attentiveness to changing the water make more difference than the medium itself. Water lets you watch root development directly; soil skips the eventual transition from water roots to soil roots. Neither is wrong.

Propagating in water

1. Cut a stem 4 to 6 inches long with a few leaves attached, cutting just below a node (the small bump, often with a visible aerial root, where a leaf attaches).
2. Remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline; left on, they rot and cloud the water.
3. Submerge the node in a clean jar of water, in bright indirect light.
4. Change the water every few days to prevent algae and bacterial buildup.
5. Once roots reach about an inch long, move the cutting to soil. See our guide on knowing when a cutting is ready for soil for the full set of signs beyond just length.

Propagating directly in soil

1. Take the same kind of cutting, 4 to 6 inches with a node, removing the lowest leaves.
2. Optionally dip the cut end in rooting hormone, genuinely optional for philodendron, which roots reliably without it, but it can speed things along.
3. Plant the node an inch or two deep in a well-draining mix, firming the soil gently around the base.
4. Keep the soil consistently moist, not wet, while roots establish. A clear plastic bag placed loosely over the cutting helps retain humidity, opened briefly each day for fresh air.
5. Check for root development after 3 to 4 weeks with a gentle tug; resistance means roots have taken hold.

Timing

Spring and summer give the fastest, most reliable results, warmth and longer daylight hours both speed root development. Winter propagation works too, it just tends to take longer and can have a somewhat lower success rate.

A note on humidity

Philodendron varieties with thinner or velvety leaves, like Philodendron micans, benefit from extra humidity while rooting, leaves that stay stuck half-unfurled is a common sign the air's too dry. Grouping the cutting with other plants or keeping it near a humidifier helps; see our indoor humidity guide for the full picture on measuring and raising it.

Sources

• Real Simple via AOL: How to Propagate Philodendron, According to Horticulturists
• Gardening Know How: How to Propagate Philodendron Plants
• House Digest: The Best Way to Propagate Heartleaf Philodendron

Frequently asked questions