How To Water Propagate Indoor Plants

Are you ready to propagate plants and grow your collection using water propagation? Or do you have a plant that's getting a bit leggy and needs a nice refresh? It’s an easy and rewarding method that lets you multiply your plants effortlessly. Let’s dive into this simple technique together.

Why Choose Water Propagation?

Water propagation is perfect for plants like pothos, spider plants, and philodendrons that root easily in water. It's a great way to witness root growth firsthand and expand your indoor garden.

What You'll Need:

  • Healthy plant cuttings with nodes (where leaves grow).
  • Clean glass jars or vases filled with water, like the Klara Vase by Treleaf
  • Rooting hormone (optional) to speed up root development.
  • Clean cutting tool: Disinfect with rubbing alcohol or a diluted bleach solution before use to prevent spreading diseases between plants.

Klara propagation vase hanging on wall with propagations and flowers

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare Your Cuttings: Take 4-6 inch cuttings from your plant, ensuring each has at least one node. Nodes are essential because roots will sprout from them.

2. Clean Your Cutting Tool: Before cutting, disinfect your scissors or knife with rubbing alcohol or a diluted bleach solution. This prevents the spread of diseases and ensures a clean cut.



3. Set Up Your Jars: Fill your glass jars or vases with clean water. Ensure the containers are transparent to allow light penetration for healthy root growth.



4. Place Your Cuttings: Submerge the cuttings into the water-filled jar, ensuring the nodes are below the waterline. You can place multiple cuttings in one jar, but avoid overcrowding.



5. Choose the Right Spot: Place your jars in a location with indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause stress, so a well-lit corner is ideal.



6. Monitor and Refresh: Check the water level regularly and change it every 1-2 weeks to prevent stagnation. If using rooting hormone, dip the cuttings' ends before placing them in water.


7. Be Patient: Root development can take a few weeks. Keep an eye on progress to see new roots forming!

Tips for Success:

  • Adjust Light: Yellowing leaves may indicate too much or too little light. Find a balance for optimal growth.
  • Water Quality: Keep the water clear and fresh. Change it more frequently if it becomes cloudy.
  • Enhance Growth: Consider using rooting hormone to encourage quicker root formation, or adjust the environment for warmer conditions.

Celebrate Your Success:

Once your cuttings have well-established roots, you can transfer them to soil or continue growing them in water. It’s a simple yet rewarding way to expand your plant collection and nurture new growth.

As your plant continues to grow, consider adding support to help your plant grow big, healthy leaves. A trellis from Treleaf is recommended. Not only will it help support your plants but it also elevates the look to your plant space.


Philodendron supported by wooden Anthrulla trellis by Treleaf

Ready to give water propagation a try? Share your progress with us—we're here to support your plant journey!

Want to take your propagation to the next level? Read here