How to Propagate Philodendron

Philodendrons root easily and quickly. Learn how to propagate both trailing and upright varieties with step-by-step instructions.

Philodendron Propagation Basics

Philodendrons are among the easiest tropical plants to propagate. Whether you have a trailing variety like the Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) or an upright type like the Tree Philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum), the process is straightforward.

What You'll Need

• A healthy philodendron plant
• Clean, sharp scissors
• Roots Down Propagation Gel
• Glass jars or propagation station
• Roots Down Root Booster
• Room-temperature water
• Well-draining potting mix (for soil propagation)

Identifying Nodes on Philodendron

Nodes are the points along the stem where leaves and aerial roots emerge. On philodendrons, they're often visible as small bumps or rings, sometimes with small aerial root nubs.

Each cutting needs at least one node — that's where roots will develop.

Step-by-Step: Water Propagation

Step 1: Select Your Vine

Choose a healthy vine that's 4-6 inches long with at least 2-3 nodes and 2-3 healthy leaves.

Step 2: Make the Cut

Cut just below a node at a 45-degree angle. A clean, sharp cut prevents tissue damage and reduces the risk of rot.

Step 3: Prepare the Cutting

Remove the leaf at the bottom node — this is where the cutting will sit in water. Keep 1-2 leaves at the top.

Step 4: Apply Rooting Gel

Dip the cut end into Roots Down Propagation Gel, coating the bottom inch. The natural auxins will accelerate root development.

Step 5: Place in Water

Submerge the bottom node in room-temperature water. Make sure no leaves are touching the water.

Step 6: Maintain and Wait

• Location: Bright, indirect light
• Water changes: Every 3-5 days
• Misting: Mist with plain water every 2-3 days to maintain humidity
• Rooting time: 1-3 weeks

Philodendron roots quickly — often faster than pothos!

Step-by-Step: Soil Propagation

If you prefer to skip the water phase:

1. Follow steps 1-4 above
2. Dip the cut end in Roots Down Propagation Gel
3. Plant in well-draining potting mix, burying the node
4. Water lightly and cover with a humidity dome
5. Keep in bright, indirect light
6. Mist with plain water every 2-3 days to maintain humidity
7. Wait 2-4 weeks for roots to establish

Propagating Upright Philodendrons

For upright/self-heading philodendrons like P. bipinnatifidum (Tree Philodendron) or P. selloum:

1. Look for stems with visible nodes and aerial roots
2. Cut a 4-6 inch section with at least one node
3. Apply Roots Down Propagation Gel
4. Root in water or soil as described above
5. These types root more slowly — allow 3-6 weeks

When to Pot Up

Wait until water roots are 1-2 inches long before transplanting to soil.

1. Use a well-draining, chunky mix (potting soil + perlite + orchid bark)
2. Plant the rooted cutting, burying the nodes
3. Water thoroughly
4. Keep soil consistently moist for 2 weeks
5. Gradually transition to normal watering
6. Support establishment with Roots Down Root Booster applied to the root zone

Popular Philodendron Varieties to Propagate

• Heartleaf Philodendron (P. hederaceum) — The easiest, roots in 1-2 weeks
• Philodendron Brasil — Variegated trailing variety, easy to root
• Philodendron Micans — Velvety leaves, roots readily in water
• Philodendron Birkin — Upright, slower to root
• Philodendron Pink Princess — Highly sought after, roots well with Roots Down Propagation Gel

Common Problems

The cutting is rotting

Change water more frequently and ensure no leaves are submerged. Remove the rotten portion and start fresh.

Roots aren't growing

Ensure the cutting has a node in the water. Apply fresh Roots Down Propagation Gel and check the temperature.

Leaves are drooping

Not enough humidity. Increase humidity by misting with plain water and keep away from drafts.

Pro Tips

• Propagate in spring or summer for fastest rooting
• Multiple cuttings per pot creates a fuller plant
• Mist aerial roots with plain water to encourage growth
• Use warm water to speed up rooting
• Be gentle when changing water — new roots are fragile

Ready to Multiply Your Philodendron?

Grab your Roots Down Propagation Gel and Roots Down Root Booster and start propagating. See also our guides on propagating pothos and water propagation.