Split leaf philodendrons, also known as Monstera deliciosa, are popular houseplants due to their captivating appearance and easy-to-grow nature. Their large, glossy leaves feature unique splits and holes, making them an attractive addition to any indoor space. Propagating these evergreen climbing plants from stem cuttings is a simple process that even a novice gardener can master. This article will provide you with step-by-step guidance on how to successfully propagate your split leaf philodendron and ensure its healthy growth.
Before diving into propagation methods, it is important to confirm that you genuinely have a split leaf philodendron and not its doppelgänger, Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum. Once you have established that your plant indeed is a split leaf philodendron, you are ready to embark on your propagation journey. There are various methods to choose from when propagating, such as using seed, layering, or stem cuttings. This article will focus on the stem cutting technique, which is commonly preferred for its ease and effectiveness.
Adequate preparation is crucial for a successful propagation process. You will need to select a healthy stem cutting from a mature plant, ensuring it has at least one leaf attached. Finding a suitable area with the right conditions, such as indirect sunlight and an appropriate temperature, will also contribute to the development of strong roots and new foliage within a month. The following sections will walk you through the propagation technique in detail, making it easy to expand your indoor garden with more thriving split leaf philodendrons.
Understanding Split Leaf Philodendron
Basic Plant Information
Split leaf philodendron, also known as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, is a popular tropical plant with large green leaves featuring deep splits. This plant is often confused with Monstera deliciosa, which has similar characteristics. However, these two plants belong to different genuses.
Split leaf philodendron is a low-maintenance plant, making it an attractive option for both indoor and outdoor gardening. This plant prefers a warm and humid environment, thriving in temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 29 degrees Celsius). Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Growth Patterns
It’s essential to understand the growth patterns of the split leaf philodendron for successful propagation. This plant tends to develop aerial roots that aid in climbing and absorbing nutrients. As it grows, you may need to provide support, such as a stake or trellis, to accommodate its climbing nature.
The size of a mature split leaf philodendron can vary, but it typically reaches a height of 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters). Pruning the plant occasionally will encourage bushier growth and maintain a manageable size in indoor settings.
- Light Requirements: Bright indirect sunlight is ideal for split leaf philodendron. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can cause leaf burn.
- Soil Requirements: A well-draining potting mix is crucial for healthy root development. Choose a mix with good aeration, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
- Fertilization: Feed your split leaf philodendron with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
By understanding the basic plant information and growth patterns of the split leaf philodendron, you’ll have a strong foundation for successful propagation and cultivation. This fascinating plant can be an eye-catching addition to your home or garden with its lush foliage and unique leaf shape.
Propagation Methods
Stem Cuttings
One effective way to propagate a split-leaf philodendron is through stem cuttings. To do this, first prepare the necessary tools: sharp scissors or pruning shears, paper towels or old newspaper, rooting hormone powder (optional), and a small plant pot with potting mix. Next, choose a few healthy stems with several leaves on the parent plant, and use clean, sharp pruners or scissors to take six-inch cuttings, cutting just below a leaf node1.
Once you have your cuttings, place them on paper towels or an old newspaper to prevent any contamination. If you choose to use rooting hormone powder, dip the cut end of each cutting into the powder. This can help speed up the rooting process but is not necessary. Place the cuttings into the potting mix, ensuring the bottom node is covered by the soil. Keep the soil moist, and place the pot in a warm location with indirect light. After a few weeks, the cuttings should start developing roots and new growth.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method for propagating split-leaf philodendrons2. This technique involves making a small cut on the stem of the parent plant, and covering that area with moist sphagnum moss. First, locate a node on the stem of the plant. Using a very sharp and sterilized knife, make a small upward slice into the stem just below the node. Be careful not to cut the stem off completely, as the goal is to create a small wound that will encourage new roots to form.
Next, soak some sphagnum moss in water and squeeze out the excess moisture. Cover the sliced area of the stem with the moist moss, making sure to wrap it securely around the stem. Use plastic wrap or a plastic bag to cover the moss, and secure it in place with tape or twist ties. This creates a contained, moist environment for the roots to form. Place the plant in a warm, indirectly lit area, and periodically check on the progress of the roots.
Once you observe significant root growth in the moss, it’s time to remove the new plant from the parent stem. Carefully cut the rooted section from the parent plant just below the newly formed roots. Remove the plastic wrap and moss, and pot the new plant in a suitable container with potting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain the same warm, indirectly lit conditions for the new plant to thrive.
Preparing Cuttings
Selecting Healthy Stems
When propagating a split-leaf philodendron, the first step is to choose the right stem. Look for a healthy stem with several leaves and no signs of damage, yellowing, or diseases. Ideally, the stem should be mature but not too old. It’s better to choose stems that are at least 3 to 6 inches long, as they have a higher chance of successful growth.
Cutting Technique
Once you’ve identified a healthy stem, follow these steps to make your cutting:
- Using a clean, sharp knife or garden snips, carefully cut the stem below one set of leaves at a 45-degree angle. The angled cut helps facilitate water uptake and provides a larger surface area for root development.
- Remove the leaves on the lower half of the cutting. It helps concentrate the plant’s energy on producing new roots instead of sustaining a large number of leaves.
- Optionally, you can dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to improve the chances of successful rooting. This can be done by shaking off any excess from the stem and placing the cutting onto a paper towel or clean surface.
- You can choose to root the cutting in either a container of potting soil or a glass jar filled with room-temperature water. For soil propagation, make sure to keep the soil moist, and for water propagation, change the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth. In both cases, place the cutting in a warm, well-lit area, but avoid direct sunlight.
By following these steps and providing proper care, your split-leaf philodendron cutting should begin to develop roots within a few weeks. Keep an eye on its progress and give the new plant the necessary care to ensure its growth and health.
Root Development
Growing Medium
Split leaf philodendron cuttings can be propagated in different growing mediums such as water or well-draining soil. When using soil, ensure that you use a mix containing peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite for better root development. This permits air circulation and provides proper drainage for the cutting’s developing roots.
Water Propagation
To propagate split leaf philodendron in water, follow these steps:
- Choose healthy stems with several leaves on the mother plant.
- Take six-inch cuttings using clean, sharp pruners or scissors, cutting just below a leaf node.
- Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem.
- Place the cuttings in a container filled with water, ensuring that no leaves are submerged.
Keep the container in a warm area with bright, indirect sunlight. Change the water once a week to prevent bacterial growth, and monitor root development. Roots typically start appearing within a few weeks, and once they reach around an inch in length, they can be transferred into a well-draining soil mix.
Temperature and Light
During root development, maintain an environment with temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C), as these are optimal conditions for split leaf philodendron growth. Keep the cuttings in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight to stimulate root growth and prevent burning the developing plant.
In summary, split leaf philodendron propagation can be achieved in both water and soil mediums. Focus on maintaining the ideal temperature and light conditions to ensure successful root development and a healthy, thriving plant.
Potting and Plant Care
Transplanting Propagated Cuttings
Once you have successfully propagated your split leaf philodendron, it’s time to transplant the cuttings into a pot or container. Choose a pot with drainage holes and fill it with a well-draining, moist potting mix. Gently remove the cutting from its current container by holding the base of the stem and roots, and place it in the new pot, making sure to cover the roots and part of the stem with the potting mix.
Watering and Fertilizing
Split leaf philodendrons have specific watering and fertilizing needs to ensure their healthy growth. Follow these guidelines when caring for your plant:
- Water: Keep the potting soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellow leaves. The best practice is to water your plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Humidity: Split leaf philodendrons thrive in a humid environment. Use a humidifier near the plant or mist it with a spray bottle to maintain adequate moisture levels.
- Fertilizing: Feed your split leaf philodendron with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce to every 8 weeks during the cooler months (fall and winter).
Maintenance and Pruning
Regular maintenance and pruning will keep your split leaf philodendron looking attractive and encourage proper growth. Follow these tips for ongoing care:
- Prune any yellow or damaged leaves and stems with a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. This will redirect the plant’s energy to healthier areas and maintain a neat appearance.
- Check your plant for pests, such as mealybugs or spider mites, and treat accordingly with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
- Rotate the pot or container every few weeks to ensure even light exposure and balanced growth. This will prevent the plant from leaning or growing unevenly.
By following these potting, watering, fertilizing, and maintenance guidelines, you are well on your way to enjoying a beautiful, healthy split leaf philodendron for years to come.
Helpful Video
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.
