How to Root a Plant Clipping in Water

If you love plants, you probably have, at some point, come across a beautiful plant that you wished to grow in your garden or indoors. But purchasing new plants can be expensive, and not to mention, it is not always easy to find the varieties you love. Fortunately, by using plant cutting, you can reproduce new plants from existing ones at a minimum cost. Rooting plant clippings in water is one of the easiest methods of propagating plants. This article will guide you on how to root a plant clipping in water:

Choose the Right Plant Cutting

The first step of rooting plant clippings is to select the right one. Choose a healthy plant that has actively growing branches. Choose the tip of the stem or a side branch. Avoid clippings that are damaged, withered, or diseased. Also, select portions of the plant that have a few sets of leaves.

Prepare the Plant Clipping

Before you place the plant clipping into the water, you need to prepare it first. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle using a clean, sharp knife or scissors. Make sure that the cutting is around four to six inches long. Remove the bottom leaves to about two inches from the bottom. This will prevent the leaves from creating algae in the water.

Use the Right Container and Water

The next step is to choose an appropriate container and water for your plant cutting. You can use different containers, such as a jar, cup, or vase, but make sure it is clean and has no residues of any chemicals. For the water, use filtered or distilled water, tap water, or rainwater. Avoid using chlorinated water since it can kill the cutting. Fill the container with enough water to cover the portion of the cutting that you cut off the leaves.

Place the Plant Clipping in Water and Position it Right

Now that you have selected the container and water, it is time to place the plant clipping into the water. Insert the cutting into the water, making sure that the angled portion is the one that you put downwards. You can add fertilizer to the water to enhance the rooting process. Afterward, position the clipping in a bright, warm location with indirect sunlight. The temperature should be at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wait for the Rooting Process

After positioning the plant cutting, you have to be patient since rooting the plant takes time. The process can take any time from two weeks to eight weeks, depending on the plant species. While waiting, ensure that the water level is maintained and change the water weekly to prevent the formation of algae. Once you notice that roots have started growing, transplant the cutting to a pot or garden soil, and watch your new plant grow.

In Conclusion

Rooting plant clippings in water is a fun and rewarding process that anyone can do. Remember to choose the right plant cutting, prepare it correctly, use the right container and water, position it right, and wait for the rooting process. We hope that this guide has been helpful in teaching you how to root a plant clipping in water.