There’s nothing more satisfying for a plant lover than watching new roots sprout from a cutting you propagated yourself. Whether you’re looking to expand your indoor jungle, save money, or share plants with friends, propagation is an easy and rewarding way to grow your collection.
But where do you start? From water propagation to soil techniques, here’s everything you need to know about propagating houseplants, plus the best beginner-friendly plants to try.
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Propagation methods: How to grow new plants from cuttings
1. Water propagation: The easiest method for beginners
Water propagation is one of the simplest ways to grow new plants. All you need is a healthy cutting, a jar of water, and some patience.
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How to do it:
- Cut a stem just below a node (the small bump where leaves or roots grow).
- Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in a glass of water.
- Keep it in a warm spot with bright, indirect light.
- Change the water every few days to prevent bacteria growth.
- Once roots are at least a few centimetres long, transplant into soil.
Best plants for water propagation:
- Pothos
- Philodendron
- Spider plant
- Monstera
- Tradescantia
2. Soil propagation: Encouraging strong root growth
Some plants root better in soil than in water. This method works well for plants that don’t like being moved from water to soil.
How to do it:
- Take a healthy cutting with at least one node.
- Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder (optional but recommended).
- Plant it directly in moist, well-draining soil.
- Keep the soil damp but not soggy.
- Cover with a plastic bag or humidity dome to create a greenhouse effect.
Best plants for soil propagation:
- Fiddle-leaf fig
- Rubber plant
- ZZ plant
- Snake plant
- African violets
3. Division: The no-fuss method for multiplying plants
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For plants that grow in clusters or have multiple stems, division is an easy way to create new plants without cutting.
How to do it:
- Gently remove the plant from its pot.
- Separate the root ball into smaller sections, making sure each has roots and leaves.
- Replant in fresh soil and water well.
Best plants for division:
- Snake plant
- Peace lily
- Aloe vera
- Ferns
- ZZ plant
4. Leaf propagation: Growing new plants from a single leaf
Some plants don’t need stems or roots to grow—just a single leaf will do! This method takes longer but is fascinating to watch.
How to do it:
- Remove a healthy leaf from the mother plant.
- Place it in water (for water propagation) or lay it on top of damp soil (for soil propagation).
- Over time, tiny roots and baby plants will form.
Best plants for leaf propagation:
- Succulents (echeveria, jade plant)
- Snake plant
- African violets
- Peperomia
Tips for successful propagation
- Use sharp, sterilised scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts and prevent infections.
- Choose a healthy mother plant—cuttings from weak or diseased plants are less likely to survive.
- Be patient! Some plants root quickly, while others take weeks to show growth
- Provide warmth and humidity, especially in dry climates. Covering cuttings with plastic wrap or a propagation box can speed up the process.
- Avoid direct sunlight—too much heat can dry out or burn your cuttings.
Best beginner-friendly plants to propagate
If you’re new to propagation, start with these hardy, fast-growing plants:
- Pothos – Grows roots in water within days and thrives in almost any condition.
- Spider plant – Produces baby “pups” that can be snipped off and replanted.
- Snake plant – Can be propagated through leaf cuttings or division.
- ZZ plant – Root cuttings or division work best for this slow-growing beauty.
- Succulents – Many can be propagated from a single leaf—just let it dry before planting.
Propagation is a fun, budget-friendly way to expand your indoor plant collection and share greenery with others. Whether you’re snipping cuttings for water propagation or splitting a plant into multiple pots, the process is easy with the right techniques. So, grab your scissors, pick a plant, and start growing!
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