How to Propagate Philodendron

The philodendron is a houseplant that's used to a jungle floor in the wild, so it doesn't require a lot of sun to be a successful grower. Crowds don't bother it either. In fact, when the roots are a little cramped it tends to grow better. If you want to grow more of this attractive foliage, you can propagate it with ease. Read on to learn how to propagate philodendron.

Things You'll Need

• Parent plant
• Growth hormone
• Sharp knife
• Planting container
• Soil, or other planting medium
• four Popsicle sticks
• Clear plastic wrap

Instructions

1. Take cuttings when the plant has begun an active growth cycle, usually in the spring. Make certain that the plant you are taking cuttings from is healthy.

2. Use a sharp knife to cut a piece from the parent plant that is about 3 to 4 inches long. It can be from the top growth tip or side stem shoots. The cut should be just below the place on the stem where a leaf has developed, a little lump called a node, and be at an angle.

3. Trim off any flowers or buds. Leave about three to four leaves on the stem at the tip.

4. Dip the stem into a rooting hormone and put the stem into a rich moist soil, making certain that at least one node is below the soil.

5. Cover with a clear plastic covering. Use four Popsicle sticks inserted into the soil, making certain that they're higher than the leaf. This creates a miniature green house. Keep it in a bright, but not sunny location. Try to maintain room temperature (72 to 75 degrees) at all times.

6. Replant to a permanent spot in a few weeks once the plant has developed roots.