Divide and MULTIPLY

Here's how to expand your plant collection with three basic propagation techniques

Plant babies: ways to make more plants

Any plant-lover can master houseplant propagation through three basic approaches: starting cuttings in soil, starting cuttings in water and dividing plants at the roots. Two things to keep in mind: First, use a very sharp, clean tool to cut plants (tip: swipe blades with rubbing alcohol), and second, be prepared to wait a few weeks to a few months for plants to root.

Tip

If you're a beginner, succulents are an easy way to get started. For another simple option, root philodendron or pothos in water. Once your cutting turns into a little plant, you can add it to your collection or give to someone else to share the love of plants.

DIVIDING AT THE ROOTS

Houseplants that sprout new stems, plantlets or pups around the outside edge of the plant's crown can fill the pot and become crowded over time. Pilea, aloe, peace lily, arrowhead plant and many other varieties can be candidates for root division. Carefully remove the plant from the pot and pull the rooted stems or pups away from each other to share these plants with others (or keep them in other pots in your own indoor jungle).

SANSEVIERIA OR SNAKE PLANT

Remove the plant from the pot. Hold the plant at the base of the leaves and gently break into clumps, trying to keep roots attached to each leaf clump. Plant the clumps in new pots with fresh potting soil. Water thoroughly. Tall Sansevieria may need to be staked for a few months until enough roots develop to support them.

PILEA