How to Propagate Carnivorous Plants Through Leaf Cutting

Growing carnivorous plants is an exotic and rewarding pastime. There are several methods for propagating new plants or new growth including root cuttings and seeds but leaf cutting may be the easiest method. This method works best for Sundews, Butterwort Venus Flytrap, Bladderwort and Genliseas varieties. Use well established plants with plenty of offshoots and strong roots for propagating reproduction.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soil
• Pot
• Plant
• Clippers
• Water
• Plastic bag

1. Fill a small pot with a generous amount of carnivorous plant potting soil. Work with soil outside on a workbench or potting stand or inside with plenty of newspaper or plastic to pick up the mess.
   
   

2. Take a small piece of the main plant gently out of the pot. Depending on the variety of plant used, the offshoot should come away quite easily but small garden clippers may prove necessary. A razor blade works well for smaller plants.
   

3. Pull leaves from the base of the offshoot plant and place them on the top of the potted soil right side up. Be sure to remove the whole leaf all the way down to the white part. This gives the best chance for reproduction. Remove no more than 40% of the plants original leaves to ensure its survival after the process is over.
   

4. Water the soil ensuring even coverage and put the pot aside in an area of high humidity. If this is not possible, cover the leaf cuttings with plastic. A sandwich bag is just the right size.
   

5. Expect to see new plant growth within several weeks.