This article, “Can You Propagate Monstera Without Node,” will cover everything you need to know about propagating Monstera, followed by how to prepare cuttings for propagation. Read on to discover:
- Things you should know about Monstera node cuttings.
- An overview of propagating Monstera without nodes.
- Tips on the best place to take cuttings for propagating Monstera.
- Expert guide on how to care for Monstera after propagation.
- Answers to some questions about propagating Monstera.
Things You Should Know About Monstera Node Cuttings
Native to tropical rainforests of Central and South America, Monstera is a genus of 49 species (49 species and six infraspecific names) of flowering plants in the Arum family, Araceae.
Among many species, Monstera Deliciosa is the most popular member, often known for its dark green, large heart-shaped leaves and towering heights of up to nine feet (indoors).
Not just that, propagating a Deliciosa is the easiest of all and only requires a cutting (a few inches below a node), ensuring that it has all the necessary components to thrive.
In the following paragraphs, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Monstera propagation, including whether or not it’s possible to propagate the plant without a node.
What is a Node?
A node is an important organ in the plant’s overall structure. Basically, it is an area on a stem where buds are located which develops into a leaf or flower as the plant reaches maturity.
The nodes themselves control the development of buds. If your Monstera doesn’t have one, all you have is a cutting of the plant, which will never develop into a clone of the mother plant.
To put it another way, the new branches, leaves, and flowers all emerge from the buds first, which may also be called florets, and if it’s not there, your Monstera plant is non-functioning.
The node of a Monstera plant is where new petioles, roots, and leaves, in addition to the nodes, emerge. It is circular, brown, and can produce one leaf in addition to several roots.
IDENTIFYING Monstera Nodes
Nodes on a Monstera resemble swollen nodules and are found along the stem. At this stage, the leaf stem is branched out from the main stem and has an aerial root growing from the side.
Monstera with aerial roots sprouting from the stem grows more quickly. When put in a jar of water, the aerial roots often spread rapidly, enabling the stem to absorb more water.
When planted in soil or a growth medium such as peat moss, it will begin to root quickly. We recommend putting Monstera in a warm and sunny area while ensuring the soil is wet.
Although a window is an ideal space, it should be shielded from direct sunlight. It also thrives in a greenhouse, where the humidity is high to prevent the Monstera stem from drying out.
Monstera InterNodes
The areas of the stem that lie between the point where the Monstera leaves join the stem and the subsequent node are known as internodes, which enable the Monstera to climb.
The Function of a Monstera Node
The nodes are home to all the cells responsible for new growth. Consequently, the nodes on the stem serve as the genesis of new development, including the leaves, stems, and aerial roots.
To put it another way, nodes on a Monstera plant are analogous to the wombs of mammals and humans. They are the essential organs responsible for the reproduction of new plants.
So, Is Propagating Monstera Without a Node Possible?
Since propagating Monstera without a node is not quite a frequent technique, there’s a relatively limited amount of information on it that can be found on the internet.
We understand this urge to observe the Monstera resuming its normal growth. After all, when we form an emotional connection with a plant, we want to try every possible hack.
Unfortunately, since the nodes are so important to the Monstera plants, there’s no question regarding whether or not the plant can grow without them. The answer is simply no.
Monstera plants without nodes will never develop into entire portions. This is because the nodes contain the tissues required to produce Monstera stem, root, flowers, and leaves.
Expect No New Leaf Growth
In contrast to other plant species, such as the Sansevieria (Snake Plant) and cactus, Monstera cannot develop into full-sized plants from a single leaf cutting. The cultivation of Monstera that lack even a single node will result in their inability to produce new leaf growth. Since it lacks the necessary tissue, it cannot support the division of cells or the growth of new leaves.
Root growth is possible
When placed in water, a monstera cutting that without a node will begin to root in about two to three weeks. However, you should not anticipate it to sprout any new leaves. In other words, if you propagate the new Monstera plant using a cutting without nodes, the propagation will only contain roots and will not result in growing any new stems or leaves.
THE LEAF CAN SURVIVE
Osmosis will ensure that the leaf continues to take in water, allowing it to retain its turgor and maintain its freshness. To prevent the leaf from withering due to excessive transpiration and the plant from overheating, it must be positioned in the optimal environment. In the past, botanists used to keep Monstera leaves without the node in labs (indoors) for several months.
Best Place to Take a Monstera Cutting
First things first, if you want to remove a cutting off the Monstera plant, the optimum place to do it is 1-2 inches below the node. Ensure that you cut responsibly with a sharp knife.
Suppose there’s not even an inch of space between each node on your Monstera, depending on how big it is.
In this case, the plant must be kept neat by snipping it closer to the bottom node.
It is possible to put the cutting in a jar with deep water to cover the lower four inches of the stem.
It is necessary to ensure that the node is submerged in water to produce new roots.
The wound caused by the cutting point will eventually heal on the main plant.
As the stem develops, the roots will continue to absorb more water when transplanted into the soil.
Care Guide for Monstera Plants After Propagation
- After propagating Monstera, keep the soil wet for the first few days.
- The temperature should be between 70-80 °F, and the humidity around 60%.
- Maintain proper temperature by putting the cuttings in a sealable glass container.
- Do not subject the Monstera to extreme temperature swings, as this may stress it.
- Always make sure to give Monstera plenty of indirect sunlight to thrive.
- Never cut down the Monstera since any disturbance might result in discomfort.
- Don’t fertilize your newly transplanted plant for at least three to six months.
- Be sure to properly check the plant since it may harbor harmful insects and fungi.
- Use clean containers and equipment for maintenance to avoid pest infestation.
To conclude, Monstera cuttings without nodes will not grow into self-sufficient plants. Thus, when taking Monstera cuttings, use a plant with a node, an aerial root, and a healthy leaf.
Be kind, open-minded, and communicative with your Monstera Deliciosa during the entire process; it will appreciate your efforts just as much as you do, regardless of the chosen method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that you know the answer to “Can You Propagate Monstera Without a Node,” this brings us to the end of this article. Before signing off, here are some frequently asked questions about propagating monstera plants.
What is a Monstera Node?
The Monstera node is the part of the Monstera plant (other plants also have nodes) from which all new plant growth, including petioles, leaves, aerial roots, and stems, emerges.
Is It Possible to Grow Roots on Monstera Cutting Without a Node?
When placed in water, a Monstera cutting without a node will begin to grow new roots in about 2-3 weeks.
However, you should not expect it to sprout any new foliage other than new roots.
Can You Propagate Monstera Plant Without Node?
Yes, Monstera without a node can be propagated; however, it will not develop into a new plant with stems or additional leaves to grow.
Simply put, it will never be more than a single leaf.
Can You Propagate a Monstera With Just Aerial Roots?
Regrettably, if you just have an aerial root, it cannot be done.
To successfully propagate the plant, you’ll need a portion of the Monstera stem cuttings containing at least one node.
Can You Propagate Monstera from a Leaf?
It is possible to grow a new plant from a stem cutting or a leaf with no nodes.
However, this will only result in the production of roots since, for complete propagation, nodes are essential.
How to Take Monstera Cutting for Proper Propagation?
Remove the node by cutting the stem at least an inch below it.
For the best outcome from the propagation process, ensure that the Monstera cutting has at least a leaf and aerial roots.
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
