How to Propagate Snake Plant and Other Plants for Beginners

Propagating plants can be a fun and rewarding hobby for plant enthusiasts. Not only can it save you money, but it also allows you to expand your collection by producing new plants from existing ones. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about propagating plants, including the easiest plants to propagate, how to propagate snake plant, and setting up a plant propagation station.

What exactly is plant propagation?

Plant propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing ones. Plant propagation techniques include taking cuttings, dividing plants, and starting plants from seeds. Each method has advantages and disadvantages, and the method chosen is determined by the type of plant and the desired outcome.

Plants can be propagated in a variety of ways, including:

1. Stem cuttings: Remove a stem from the parent plant and place it in soil or water until roots and new growth appear.
2. Leaf cuttings: Cut a leaf from the parent plant and place it in soil or water until roots and new growth appear.
3. Root cuttings: Cut a section of the parent plant's root and soak it in soil or water until new growth appears.
4. Divide the parent plant into several smaller plants, each with its own root system.
5. Layering is the process of burying a section of the parent plant's stem under soil and waiting for it to develop roots and new growth before separating it from the parent plant.
6. Grafting: Joining a desirable plant's stem or branch to the rootstock of another plant to create a new plant with the desired characteristics.

Each method of propagation has advantages and disadvantages, and some methods work better for certain types of plants than others.

The Easiest Plants to Propagate

Some plants are more easily propagated than others. The following are some of the simplest plants to propagate:

Plantlets, or small baby plants, are produced by the spider plant and can be easily removed and potted.
Pothos: Pothos can be propagated by placing stem cuttings in water or soil.
Snake plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes or taking leaf cuttings.
Succulents: You can propagate many succulent plants by taking stem or leaf cuttings.

How to Propagate Snake Plant

Snake plant, also known as Sansevieria, is a popular indoor plant that requires little maintenance and can be propagated in a variety of ways. Dividing the rhizomes is one method of propagating snake plant. Remove the plant from its pot and use a clean, sharp knife to gently separate the rhizomes. At least one healthy leaf and a small section of rhizome should be attached to each section.


Leaf cuttings are another method for propagating snake plants. To do this, take a leaf from the plant and cut it into 2-3 inch long sections. Plant the sections in moist soil, away from direct sunlight, until they begin to root.

Setting Up a Plant Propagation Station

It is essential to have a dedicated space to propagate plant in order to be successful. Simple materials such as seed trays, grow lights, and a humidity dome can be used to set up a plant propagation station. The station should be placed in a well-lit, warm environment with good airflow.

Plant Propagation: A Fun Hobby

Plant propagation is a rewarding hobby that plant enthusiasts of all levels can enjoy. You can expand your plant collection and enjoy the satisfaction of producing new plants from existing ones by following the tips in this guide.

Begin propagating your own plants right away and watch your collection grow!