How to Propagate Monstera deliciosa? A Detailed Guide to the Latest Propagation Methods

Monstera deliciosa, also known as Penglai banana, wire orchid, monstera taro, and monstera leaf, is a plant in the genus Monstera of the Araceae family. It has an elegant plant shape, peculiarly shaped leaves, and deep green, glossy foliage. The overall ornamental effect of the whole plant is good, making it a famous indoor potted foliage plant. Its propagation is very easy, and it can be propagated by division, cuttings, and sowing. Now let us take a look at the propagation methods of Monstera deliciosa!

Propagating Monstera deliciosa by Division

Division propagation of Monstera deliciosa is carried out in summer and autumn. Cut off an entire section of a side branch from a large Monstera deliciosa, keeping some aerial roots, and plant it directly in a wooden tub or pot. Not only is the survival rate high, but the finished effect is also quick to achieve. It is currently one of the most commonly used and simplest methods in Monstera deliciosa propagation.

Propagating Monstera deliciosa by Cuttings

For cutting propagation of Monstera deliciosa, stem-node cuttings can be used in both spring and autumn, with the best results in April-May of spring and September-October of autumn. Select current-year side branches with substantial stem tissue and robust growth as cuttings. The cuttings should be 20-25 cm long, and the leaves at the base should be cut off. Keep the small leaves at the upper end, cut off the long aerial roots, and keep the short aerial roots to absorb water and help rooting. Use a mixed substrate of coarse sand and peat or leaf mold for the cutting bed. After planting, maintain 25-27°C and relatively high air humidity. Rooting generally begins only about 1 month after planting. After the cuttings have rooted, the axillary buds on the stem nodes also begin to sprout and unfold leaves. To accelerate seedling growth, keep the room temperature above 10°C, strengthen fertilizer and water management, and in the second year after planting, the seedlings will have taken shape and can be sold as commercial products. If hanging decoration is desired, a wooden frame or iron stand container can be prepared, filled with palm fiber, and fertile leaf mold placed inside, then the rooted and surviving Monstera deliciosa can be planted in it as a hanging basket product.

Propagating Monstera deliciosa by Sowing

Seed propagation of Monstera deliciosa is also a relatively commonly used propagation method, but compared with the previous two, it is used less often. Monstera deliciosa blooms in summer. To improve the seed-setting rate, artificial pollination is needed. Pollinating twice, at 9-10 a.m. and 3-4 p.m., gives the best results and a high pollination success rate. From pollination to seed maturity takes 15 months. During the seed development stage, pay attention to ventilation and fertilizer and water management to promote full and plump seeds. Before sowing, soak the seeds in 40°C warm water for 10 hours, and the sowing soil should be sterilized at high temperature. Monstera deliciosa seeds are relatively large, so spot sowing can be used. After sowing, maintain the room temperature at 20-25°C, cover the box opening with plastic film, and keep humidity above 80%. Germination generally occurs 20-25 days after sowing. If the room temperature is too low during the sowing process, it will not only affect emergence, but may even cause the seeds to become water-soaked and rot.