How to Cut a Plant to Root in Water

If you love plants and have an abundance of them in your home, you may be interested in propagating them by cuttings. This cost-effective method involves taking a cutting from an existing plant, putting it in water or soil, and watching it grow into a new plant. In this article, we will be focusing on how to cut a plant to root in water.

Choose the Right Plant

Before you start cutting, you need to choose the right plant to propagate. Some plants are easier to root in water than others. Generally, plants with soft stems or vines propagate better in water. Examples of plants that root well in water include pothos, philodendron, spider plants, and wandering Jew.

Prepare Your Cutting

When you have selected the plant you want to propagate, the next step is to prepare your cutting. Using a clean, sharp cutting tool, cut a six-inch section of stem off the plant where the new growth is just beginning to emerge. Make the cut at a 45-degree angle and make sure to cut just below a set of leaves. Remove any lower leaves, leaving two to three at the top.

Root Your Cutting in Water

After you have prepared your cutting, it's time to put it in water. Fill a glass or vase with fresh, room-temperature water and place your cutting in it. Make sure that the cut end is submerged in water, but the leaves are not. You can add a few drops of rooting hormone to the water to stimulate rooting, but this step is optional.

Place the glass or vase in a bright, warm location, but avoid direct sunlight. Change the water every few days and make sure that the water level is always covering the cut end. In a few weeks, you should see roots start to grow from the cut end of the stem.

Plant Your Cutting

Once your cutting has developed a good root system, it's time to plant it in soil. Choose a pot with good drainage and fill it with a well-draining potting mix. Make a hole in the soil and gently insert the cutting, making sure that the roots are covered with soil. Water the newly planted cutting and place it in bright, indirect sunlight.

It's important to remember that not all cuttings will root successfully, and it may take a few tries to get the hang of it. But with a little patience and practice, you can propagate your favorite plants and expand your indoor garden.

Conclusion

Propagating plants through cuttings is a fun and rewarding hobby that can save you money and help you grow your plant collection. Rooting a cutting in water is a simple and effective method that can be done with minimal equipment and space. With the right plant selection, preparation, and care, you can create a new plant from a cutting and enjoy the satisfaction of watching it grow and thrive.