how to propagate swiss cheese plant in water

Propagating a Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa) in water is a relatively easy and effective method. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Materials needed:

• A healthy Swiss Cheese Plant with long stems and aerial roots
• A clean glass or jar with a wide mouth
• Water
• A sharp, sterile knife or pruning tool
• Optional: rooting hormone powder or liquid

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Choose a healthy stem: Select a stem with at least two nodes (the joint where a leaf meets the stem) and a few aerial roots. Avoid taking cuttings from weak or damaged stems.
2. Cut the stem: Cut the stem about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) below a node using a sharp, sterile knife or pruning tool. Make the cut at a 45-degree angle, and just above a node.
3. Remove lower leaves: Remove any leaves that will be submerged in water, leaving only the top two or three leaves. This will help prevent bacterial growth and promote rooting.
4. Prepare the cutting: If using rooting hormone, apply a small amount to the cut end of the stem.
5. Place in water: Put the cut end of the stem into the water, making sure the node is fully submerged. If necessary, weigh down the cutting with a rock or a paper clip to keep it underwater.
6. Provide adequate light: Place the glass or jar in a bright, indirectly lit area, but not in direct sunlight.
7. Maintain water level: Check the water level daily and top it up as needed to keep the node submerged.
8. Monitor for roots: Roots should start to develop within 1-3 weeks. You can observe the roots growing by looking through the glass or jar.
9. Transplant: Once the roots have developed and the new plant is growing well, you can transplant it into a pot with well-draining soil.

Tips and Variations:

• Use a clear glass or jar to monitor the roots’ growth.
• Change the water every 1-2 weeks to prevent bacterial growth.
• Keep the water level consistent to prevent the roots from drying out.
• You can also add a few drops of liquid fertilizer to the water to promote healthy growth.
• If you’re having trouble getting the cutting to root, try using a rooting hormone or adjusting the water temperature (ideally between 65°F to 75°F or 18°C to 24°C).

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully propagate your Swiss Cheese Plant in water. Good luck!