How to Propagate Pilea

The pilea has several varieties but the best known is called the aluminum plant, which is originally from Vietnam. The reason for its name is the shiny silver that marks the dark green foliage in interesting patterns. If you have one pilea and want more, the easiest way is through tip cuttings.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sharp knife
• Loam
• Peat moss
• Sand
• Pots
• Rooting medium

1. Find a sharp knife to take the cutting for propagation.

2. Mix up the medium in which to grow the new plant. Use a combination that is a mixture of 1/4 loam, 1/4 peat moss and 1/2 sand. Moisten the medium thoroughly before using it.

3. Put the mixture into a pot and get ready to begin the process of tip cutting the pilea. Have the rooting medium close by.

4. Find a tip that is at least three inches long from the stem on the parent plant. Cut it off. If you're taking more than one tip, keep the stem in a glass of cool water until you're ready to use it.

5. Remove the leaves at the bottom of the pilea and make a final cut in the stem at a 45 degree angle.

6. Put the rooting medium onto the stem. Depending on which one you use, the method will vary. Read the directions on the box.

7. Insert the stem into the pot and cover. It may be wise at this time to cover the new tip cutting with a plastic bag. This helps to retain the moisture that the plants can get no other way, as it has no roots yet. Mist the new pilea frequently.