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Yes, you can take a cutting from a monstera, and it’s one of the simplest ways to grow a brand new plant.
Taking a cutting from a monstera is a favorite trick among plant lovers because these tropical beauties root so willingly and quickly.
Whether you want to expand your own collection, fill out a leggy plant, or share a piece of your monstera with a friend, the process is doable at home with minimal supplies.
In this post, we’ll dig into why you can take a cutting from a monstera, how to do it step by step, and what to do after your cutting starts rooting.
Let’s get growing.
Yes, You Can Take a Cutting From a Monstera
Taking a cutting from a monstera isn’t just possible, it’s actually encouraged by many houseplant enthusiasts.
Here’s why taking a cutting from a monstera works so well and how to set yourself up for success.
Why Taking a Cutting From a Monstera Works So Well
Monsteras are incredibly resilient plants that have a natural ability to regenerate from cuttings.
When you take a cutting from a monstera, you’re essentially cloning the parent plant.
The cutting already has everything it needs to form new roots, thanks to those little brown nodes along the stem.
Another reason taking a cutting from a monstera works so well is that these plants grow aerial roots in their natural habitat.
This means your cutting is basically pre-programmed to root, which is why the success rate is so high.
That’s why taking a cutting from a monstera is such a reliable propagation method.
The Best Time to Take a Cutting From a Monstera
You can take a cutting from a monstera during any season, but spring and early summer are absolutely ideal.
During these warmer months, your monstera is in its active growing phase.
This means the cutting will root faster and establish itself more quickly.
If you take a cutting from a monstera in winter, don’t stress, it can still work, but you’ll need more patience.
Just make sure your plant is healthy and hydrated before you make any cuts.
What You Need Before You Take a Cutting From a Monstera
Before you take a cutting from a monstera, gather a few simple supplies.
You’ll need a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears or scissors.
A glass jar or vase filled with fresh water works perfectly for water rooting.
If you prefer soil propagation, grab a small pot with well-draining potting mix.
How to Take a Cutting From a Monstera Step by Step
Now let’s walk through exactly how to take a cutting from a monstera without harming the mother plant.
Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a thriving new monstera in no time.
1. Locate the Perfect Node
The most important part of taking a cutting from a monstera is finding a node.
A node is that small brown bump or aerial root growing from the stem.
This is where new roots will emerge, so your cutting absolutely needs one.
Look for a stem with at least one node and a healthy leaf attached.
Ideally, you want a node that already has a tiny aerial root starting to form.
2. Make a Clean Cut
Once you’ve spotted the node, it’s time to take a cutting from a monstera.
Use your sharp shears to cut an inch below the node.
Make the cut at a slight angle, which increases the surface area for root growth.
A clean cut helps prevent rot and keeps both the cutting and the mother plant healthy.
Avoid crushing the stem with dull blades, as this can invite disease.
3. Remove Lower Leaves
After you take a cutting from a monstera, check the lower part of the stem for leaves that might sit below the waterline.
Remove those leaves, as submerged leaves will rot and can harm your cutting.
You want the node exposed and the leaf or leaves sitting comfortably above the water.
4. Root Your Monstera Cutting in Water or Soil
After you take a cutting from a monstera, place it in a jar of water with the node fully submerged.
Keep the leaf above the waterline so it doesn’t rot.
Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and oxygenated.
Alternatively, you can plant the cutting directly into moist soil, though water rooting lets you watch the progress.
Many people find water rooting more satisfying because you can see those roots developing day by day.
Caring for Your Monstera Cutting After You Take It
Your job doesn’t end when you take a cutting from a monstera.
Proper aftercare will determine how quickly your cutting develops strong roots and how healthy it stays.
Light and Water Needs
Place your monstera cutting in bright, indirect light.
Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light slows root development.
If you’re rooting in water, top it up as needed and swap it out weekly.
If you’re rooting in soil, keep it consistently moist but not soggy.
Add a little liquid fertilizer once roots appear, but don’t overdo it.
When to Transplant Your Rooted Cutting
After a few weeks, you’ll notice roots growing from the node of your monstera cutting.
Once those roots reach two to three inches long, it’s time to move the cutting into a pot with soil.
Gently transfer it, water it well, and let it adjust to its new home.
Keep the soil lightly moist for the first couple of weeks while the roots get established.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest mistakes people make when they take a cutting from a monstera is cutting without a node.
A stem with no node simply won’t root, no matter how long you wait.
Another mistake is using water that’s too cold or letting the cutting sit in direct sunlight.
Patience is key, so resist the urge to tug on your cutting to check for roots.
So, Can You Take a Cutting From a Monstera?
Yes, you can take a cutting from a monstera, and it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do as a plant parent.
Taking a cutting from a monstera gives you a brand new plant that’s genetically identical to the original.
With the right node, a clean cut, and a little patience, your monstera cutting will root and grow into a gorgeous full plant.
So grab your shears and give it a try, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to take a cutting from a monstera and watch it thrive.