How to Propagate Monstera Deliciosa (Step-by-Step)

Why propagate Monstera?

Propagating Monstera deliciosa is one of the most rewarding things you can do as a plant parent. You get free plants to keep, gift, or swap — and the process teaches you a lot about how plants work. The good news: Monstera is one of the easiest houseplants to propagate.

What you'll need

• A healthy parent plant with at least one node
• Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
• A glass of water or a small pot with well-draining soil
• Indirect light and patience

Step 1 — Find the right cutting

Look for a stem section with at least one node — the brown, nub-like bump on the stem where roots will emerge. Ideally your cutting also has an aerial root already forming (those brown rope-like structures). A cutting without a node will not root, no matter how long you wait.

Cut just below the node at a 45° angle. One or two leaves is ideal — more than that and the cutting spends too much energy maintaining foliage instead of growing roots.

Step 2 — Water propagation (easiest for beginners)

Place the cutting in a clean glass or jar of water, making sure the node is submerged but no leaves are touching the water. Put it in bright, indirect light — a north or east-facing windowsill works well.

Change the water every 5–7 days to prevent bacteria building up. You should see small white root nubs within 2–4 weeks. Once roots are 3–5cm long, it's ready to pot up.

Step 3 — Soil propagation (faster long-term growth)

If you want to skip the water step, you can propagate directly into moist perlite or a 50/50 mix of perlite and potting compost. Keep the medium consistently moist (not waterlogged) and cover loosely with a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity. Roots typically form within 3–6 weeks.

Step 4 — Potting up

When roots are well established (5cm+ for water propagations), pot your cutting into a well-draining mix — a standard houseplant compost with added perlite works perfectly. Water thoroughly and place in indirect bright light. Expect the first new leaf within 4–8 weeks.

Common mistakes to avoid

• No node on the cutting — a leaf alone will never root.
• Too much direct sun — cuttings are fragile; direct sun scorches them before roots form.
• Letting roots get too long in water — transfer to soil before roots reach 8cm or they struggle to adapt.
• Overwatering after potting — new roots are delicate; water only when the top 2cm of soil is dry.

Share your progress

Propagation is even more fun with a community cheering you on. Post your cuttings in the Aiya's Garden forum — our members love celebrating new roots. You can also use the Propagation Tracker in your garden to log each stage from cutting to established plant.