If you’re a plant enthusiast, you may have already come across the Chinese Evergreen. This evergreen is native to tropical Asia and has been considered as one of the easiest plants to care for indoors. One of the best things about this plant is that it’s incredibly easy to propagate.
Propagating a Chinese Evergreen can be done using two methods: division and stem cuttings.
Method 1: Division
Division involves separating mature clumps of the Chinese Evergreen into smaller sections. This method is perfect when your plant becomes too large and requires more space or if you want to share your plant with other people.
Here are the steps on how to divide your Chinese Evergreen:
Step 1: Remove Your Plant from Its Pot
Before dividing your Chinese Evergreen, remove it from its pot gently by tapping on its sides or bottom. Once removed, inspect its roots for any signs of root rot or damage.
Step 2: Separate The Clumps
Look for natural separations in the clump such as areas where stems diverge from each other. Use a clean knife or sharp scissors (sterilized with rubbing alcohol) to separate these sections while ensuring not to damage any roots.
Step 3: Repotting The Divided Plants
After separation, replant each divided section in separate pots filled with new soil mixtures that are well-draining yet moisture-retentive in nature. Water each newly potted section thoroughly so that all soil particles settle around them without leaving air pockets behind.
Method 2: Stem Cuttings
If you don’t want to disturb your established plants’ growth by dividing them, propagating through stem cutting might be better suited for you instead.
Here’s how:
Step 1 : Prep Work
Begin by selecting healthy stems free from any disease or pest infestations near their base – ones between three and six inches long will work best.
Next, cut the leaves at the base of each stem to prepare it for propagation.
Step 2: Rooting Hormone
Once you have prepared all your stem cuttings, dip their bottoms into rooting hormone powders, which can be found in most gardening shops.
Step 3: Plant Your Stem Cuttings
Fill a pot with moist soil mixtures and create holes using a pencil or stick where you’ll insert your stem cuttings. Space them out evenly, so they don’t touch each other or compete for nutrients.
After inserting your cutting into the hole, fill it up with more soil mixture around its base until no air pockets remain.
Step 4: Provide Adequate Moisture And Light
Water your newly planted stem cuttings immediately after planting them and place them in bright but indirect sunlight locations. Keep the soil consistently moist but not water-logged to prevent root rot from setting in.
Propagating a Chinese Evergreen is an easy process that anyone can do once they understand how it works. Whether you’re dividing clumps or propagating through stem cutting methods, ensure that there’s adequate moisture retention and lighting conditions for optimal growth results!
