Chop and Prop- a how to on propagation

The most common method of propagation is chop and prop. There are some plants that this method won't work for, however plants with clear nodes will always be able to be propagated via this method.

The Node

For anyone wondering, this is a 'node' (the roots will come from here once propagated). An easy way to identify the node is where the leaf joins to the stem of the plant!

When using the 'chop and prop' method of propagating, you will have to include the node otherwise it will not grow roots. Therefore, you cannot just propagate a plant from just a leaf cutting.

Takeaway: ALWAYS CUT BELOW THE NODE

The Substrate

When doing 'chop and prop' you will need to put your cutting in a substrate in order to grow the roots out! There are a few different substrates you can use...

1.'Chop and Prop' in Water

Here is one of my current water propagations- my maranta leuconeura or 'prayer plant'.

Most plants are easily propagated in clean water, some are not so suited, but water is generally a good bet!

Unlike in the picture, it is best to propagate in an opaque or dark bottle, jar or other container as this will simulate the dark environment of the soil and will stimulate root growth.

If the cutting is still pushing out new leaves it can be good to add a drop of fertiliser to the water. *Always follow the instructions on the fertiliser!*

Remember to change the water every 4-ish days otherwise the roots will rot due to the lack of oxygen able to access the roots.

2.'Chop and Prop' in Sphagnum moss

*This is not my picture- click to see the original source*

Sphagnum moss is a very good substrate for many plants, I have used it for my rhaphidophora tetrasperma propagations (or mini monstera).

When using sphagnum moss do not put the stem of the plant too far down into the moss otherwise the stem will rot. I learnt that the hard way!

When stuffing the moss into the container for propagation, remember not to compress it too much as, again, the root will rot.

3.'Chop and Prop' in Soil

Here are my string of hearts propagations!

I keep them in moist soil and inside a plastic bag to maintain humidity, otherwise they will dry out and die.

When using soil always make sure the node is in contact with the soil.

I have tried many substrates for SOH propagation and this has been the best one ! This is one of the few plants I have found to be propagated more easily in soil than in water. Often soil is not your best option!

This method normally works on string of hearts, string of pearls, string of bananas, string of tears, etc.

4.'Chop and Prop' in Leca

*This is not my picture- click to see the original source*

Leca is a really good propagation substrate!

Many people love leca as it is semi-hydroponic and stops fungus gnats as they can't live in leca.

The roots grown will be leca roots and so won't easily transfer to soil- so keep this in mind while using this substrate !

Other substrates (such as perlite, pon, etc.) will be very similar to leca!

The Time Period

The last thing I have to say on this post is remember patience! It will take months for your plants to develop roots so don't be discouraged!

They may start pushing out roots sooner, in which case great! But it may be a good idea to let the roots mature a little before moving into your planting substrate :)

Thank you so much for reading, I hope this post has been helpful!

If you have any questions please ask in the comment section!