You can easily propagate Satin Pothos (Scindapsus pictus) in water. This method of propagation is quite popular and has a high success rate. It’s a simple and effective way to grow new plants from stem cuttings.
To begin, you’ll need a healthy Satin Pothos plant to take cuttings from. Look for a long, trailing stem with several nodes. Nodes are the points where leaves or branches emerge from the stem. These nodes contain the cells responsible for root growth, making them ideal for propagation.
Once you’ve identified a suitable stem, use a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears or scissors to make a clean cut just below a node. The cutting should be around 4-6 inches long, with at least two or three nodes.
After taking the cuttings, remove any leaves from the lower nodes so that only the top few leaves remain. This helps redirect the plant’s energy towards root development instead of supporting excess foliage.
Now it’s time to place the cuttings in water. Fill a clean glass or jar with room temperature water, ensuring that at least one node is submerged. You can use tap water, but it’s advisable to let it sit for 24 hours to allow any chlorine or other chemicals to dissipate.
Place the glass or jar in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight as it can lead to excessive algae growth in the water. Room temperature is ideal for the propagation process, as cooler or warmer temperatures may affect root development.
Change the water every week or two to prevent stagnation and ensure adequate oxygen supply. When changing the water, take the opportunity to inspect the cuttings for any signs of rot or decay. If you notice any issues, remove the affected cuttings to prevent them from spreading to others.
Within a few weeks, you should start to see roots forming at the nodes of the cuttings. Initially, these roots may be small and thin, but they will continue to grow and develop over time. Once the roots are at least an inch or two long, you can transplant the cuttings into a well-draining potting mix.
To do this, gently remove the cuttings from the water and carefully plant them in small pots filled with a mix of potting soil and perlite or vermiculite. Ensure that the nodes with roots are buried in the soil while the leaves remain above the surface.
Keep the newly potted cuttings in a warm and humid location, away from direct sunlight. Mist the leaves regularly to maintain humidity and prevent them from drying out. Over time, the cuttings will establish themselves and grow into healthy Satin Pothos plants.
Propagating Satin Pothos in water is a straightforward process. By taking stem cuttings and placing them in water, you can encourage root growth and eventually transfer the cuttings to soil. It’s a rewarding and cost-effective way to expand your collection of Satin Pothos plants.
