Indoor Plant Propagation: The Five Easiest Methods and Best Plants for Beginners

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just dipping your toes into the world of horticulture, you’ll find these propagation techniques both straightforward and gratifying. We’ll explore the five simplest methods to multiply your plants, which are perfect for anyone looking to expand their collection with minimal fuss. We’ll also recommend some of the best plants for beginners to start with, highlighting favourites such as the vibrant Tradescantia Nanouk. These methods and plant choices ensure a successful start to your propagation journey, making it easy to see quick and exciting results.

1. Water Propagation

This is perhaps the simplest and most satisfying method for beginners. All you need is a clear glass vessel, some water, and a cutting from your plant. Make sure your cutting has at least one node (a small bump where the leaf meets the stem), as this is where the roots will sprout.

Best plants for water propagation: Pothos and Tradescantia are excellent choices. Our Tradescantia Nanouk, with its stunning pink and green foliage, roots beautifully in water and offers a quick reward as you watch the roots develop.

2. Soil Propagation

Soil propagation can be just as easy as water propagation, with the added benefit that once the plant roots, it’s already in its growing medium. Take a cutting, dip the end in rooting hormone (this is optional but can help stimulate root growth), and plant it in a pot filled with moist potting mix.

Best plants for soil propagation: Spider plants and African violets. Spider plants, particularly, are very forgiving and perfect for beginners.

3. Division

This method is ideal for plants that naturally grow in clumps or have multiple stems. Simply remove the plant from its container, gently tease apart the roots, and divide the plant into smaller sections. Make sure each section has roots and at least one shoot.

Best plants for division: Peace lilies and snake plants. Both of these are hardy and adapt well to division, making them excellent candidates for beginners.

4. Leaf Cuttings

Some plants can be propagated by leaf cuttings, where a single leaf can produce a new plant. This method is fascinating because it allows you to see a whole new plant emerge from just a leaf!

Best plants for leaf cuttings: Begonias and African violets. Our customers have had great success with Rex Begonias, which can produce dramatic and colourful foliage.

5. Air Layering

Air layering is a bit more advanced, but it’s a magical process suitable for larger plants. It involves making a small wound on a stem, surrounding it with moist moss, and wrapping it with plastic to keep the moisture in. Roots will develop from the wound, and once they’re robust, you can cut the stem below the roots and pot it up.

Best plants for air layering: Monstera and Rubber plants. Both are popular in our shop and provide a dramatic effect in any indoor setting.

Propagation not only expands your plant collection but also deepens your connection to your plants. Each of these methods can be a fun, educational experience, especially when you start with forgiving plants like those mentioned above. Whether it’s the striking leaves of the Tradescantia Nanouk or the resilient nature of the spider plant, there’s a method and a plant for everyone.

Feel free to visit our shop for all your propagation needs, from cuttings to pots, and don't hesitate to check out our blogs for more tips and tricks. Happy propagating!