How to Propagate Aglaonema Plant: Propogation Made Easy

Aglaonemas also known as Chinese evergreens, are one of the most popular houseplants around. With their colorful foliage and easy care requirements it’s no wonder why they are a staple in many homes. If you already have an aglaonema plant, propagating it can allow you to get more plants for free! In this article, I’ll walk you through the easy steps for propagating aglaonema at home.

Why Propagate Your Aglaonema Plant?

Propagating your aglaonema has many benefits

• It’s an easy and inexpensive way to get more plants. Buying new plants can add up, but propagating allows you to increase your plant collection for free.

• You can propagate new plants as gifts for friends and family. Sharing plants is a thoughtful gesture that fellow plant lovers are sure to appreciate.

• Propagating ensures you always have a backup plant in case your original aglaonema dies.

• You can propagate new varieties. Many aglaonemas are hybrids so propagating gives you a chance to grow different leaf shapes, colors and patterns.

• It’s a fun project! Propagating plants is an enjoyable way to expand your gardening skills.

How to Propagate an Aglaonema

Propagating an aglaonema is quite straightforward. There are a few different methods you can choose from:

Propagating by Division

Dividing an overgrown aglaonema into smaller sections is an easy way to propagate it. Here’s how:

• Carefully remove the plant from its pot. Gently loosen and divide the root mass using your hands or a sharp, clean knife.

• Ensure each divided section has 3-5 stems and plenty of healthy roots attached.

• Repot each new division in its own pot using fresh potting mix.

• Water well and place in bright, indirect light. New growth will emerge after several weeks.

Propagating by Cuttings

Taking stem cuttings is the most common way to propagate aglaonema. Follow these steps:

• Select a healthy stem with a few leaves. Cut it just below a node using clean shears.

• Remove lower leaves so you have a stem section around 5 inches long.

• Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional but helps).

• Plant the cutting in potting mix, water gently and cover with a plastic bag.

• Place in indirect light and remove the bag once roots develop in a few weeks.

Propagating in Water

You can also propagate in water. Here’s how:

• Take a stem cutting as outlined above. Remove lower leaves.

• Place the cutting in a glass jar or vase filled with room temperature water.

• Change water weekly and add liquid fertilizer sometimes.

• Once roots grow a few inches long, transfer to soil.

Tips for Successful Propagation

Follow these tips to ensure your aglaonema cuttings root quickly:

• Use a sharp, clean knife or shears to prevent crushing stems. Make smooth cuts just below leaf nodes.

• Select stems with healthy leaves. Avoid diseased or damaged parts of the plant.

• Keep the rooting environment warm – between 70-80°F is optimal.

• Once planted, enclose cuttings to boost humidity. Domes and plastic bags work well.

• Avoid direct hot sun which can scorch tender new growth. Bright indirect light is best.

• Check for root development after 2-4 weeks. Don’t disturb cuttings unnecessarily.

• Pot up individually once rooted. Use pots with drainage holes and well-draining soil.

Common Problems When Propagating Aglaonema

Propagating aglaonema is quite simple but occasionally issues pop up. Here are some common problems and solutions:

Rotting cuttings – This is often caused by overwatering or humidity that’s too high. Allow soil to partially dry between waterings and remove any domes or bags once growth emerges.

Weak or no new growth – Low light or improper soil moisture typically causes this. Move plants to a brighter spot and ensure the soil is kept evenly moist.

Drooping leaves – Drooping leaves usually indicate the plant is water stressed. Check soil moisture and water more frequently if needed.

Leaf yellowing – Many factors can cause yellowing leaves but it’s typically improper moisture or nutritional deficiencies. Adjust your watering schedule and fertilize lightly.

Root or stem rot – Too much water leads to rot. Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Discard any cuttings that are mushy or foul smelling.

Pests – Check closely for common pests like mealybugs and scale which can infest tender new growth. Isolate and treat any infested plants.

Don’t be discouraged if you encounter an issue. Adjust your care and try propagating again! With a little practice, you’ll get the hang of propagating aglaonema in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for aglaonema cuttings to root?

It usually takes 2-6 weeks for aglaonema cuttings to develop roots. New leaf growth will emerge a few weeks after that. Be patient as some plants root faster than others.

What’s the best rooting medium to use?

A general houseplant potting mix that retains some moisture but still drains well is ideal. Or you can use a 50/50 mix of peat and perlite.

Can I propagate a leaf cutting?

Unfortunately aglaonema cannot be propagated from just a leaf. The cutting must include a stem section containing nodes where new roots and shoots can emerge.

How can I encourage faster root development?

Using a rooting hormone, keeping the environment warm and humid, and providing bright indirect light will all encourage faster rooting.

Should I mist my propagation?

It’s best not to mist the cuttings as too much moisture can lead to rot. Maintain humidity by enclosing the pot or using a greenhouse dome.

How do I care for propagations once rooted?

Once rooted and potted up, care for propagations like mature aglaonema plants. Give them bright light, moderate watering, humidity and fertilize occasionally.

Final Thoughts