Frederic Melton
The Swiss cheese plant, or Monstera deliciosa, is a tropical ornamental plant with large, heart-shaped leaves. As the plant ages, the leaves become covered with holes, resembling Swiss cheese. This plant can be easily propagated through stem cuttings, which can be grown in water, soil, or with the air-layering method. To propagate a Swiss cheese plant, cut a stem just below a healthy leaf node and place the cutting in water until roots begin to form, which usually takes about two weeks. The cutting can then be transplanted to soil, where it will continue to grow into a new plant.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common name | Swiss Cheese Plant |
| Scientific name | Monstera Deliciosa |
| Other names | Monstera, Swiss Cheese Vine, Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma, Monstera Adansonii |
| Propagation method | Stem cuttings, seeds, suckers, air layering |
| Cutting method | Cut the stem just below a healthy leaf node |
| Rooting | Can be rooted in water or soil |
| Rooting time | 2-3 weeks in water, several weeks in soil |
| Rooting hormone | Optional, but can help stimulate root formation |
| Soil type | Rich, well-drained, slightly acidic, airy |
| Container size | Smaller containers are better |
| Light | Indirect light, partial shade |
| Watering | Regular, moist |
| Temperature | Warm |
| Humidity | High |
| Support | Stake, moss pole, or basket |
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What You'll Learn
How to cut a Swiss cheese plant stem
The Swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) is a tropical ornamental plant with large, heart-shaped leaves that become covered in holes as the plant ages. This gives the leaves a resemblance to Swiss cheese, hence the name. The Swiss cheese plant is a popular houseplant due to its ability to cope with dry environments and irregular watering.
To cut a Swiss cheese plant stem, follow these steps:
- Identify a healthy leaf node: The node is usually very near where a leaf starts, but it is not on the leaf itself. Make sure there is at least one leaf attached to the node.
- Cut the stem: Using a clean, sharp blade, make a diagonal cut about half an inch below the node. Ensure that the stem cutting has a diameter of at least a pencil.
- Remove extra leaves: If there is more than one leaf on the stem, remove the lowest one to give the stem's nodes more room to grow.
- Dip the cutting in water or rooting hormone: You can choose to dip the cut end of the stem in water and allow it to root there, or you can use a rooting hormone powder to stimulate root formation before planting.
- Place the cutting in water (optional): If you choose to root the cutting in water, fill a clear glass container with room-temperature water and place the cutting in a spot with indirect or dappled sunlight. Refresh the water every few days, and wait for roots to form within two to three weeks.
- Transplant to soil: Once the roots are thick and about two inches long, transplant the cutting to a small pot with moist, well-drained potting soil. A mixture of 50% potting soil, 25% orchid bark, and 25% perlite will help improve airflow to the roots.
- Water regularly: Pay attention to keeping the roots evenly moist for the first week or so while they acclimate to their new environment.
Remember that the Swiss cheese plant can become uncontrollable, so it is important to manage its growth by pruning it back when it appears too tall or when the aerial roots become difficult to control.
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Propagating Swiss cheese plants in water
Propagating Swiss cheese plants (Monstera deliciosa) in water is a cost-effective way to get new plants for free. Here is a detailed guide on how to propagate Swiss cheese plants in water:
First, take a cutting from the plant. This can be done by cutting just after a leaf node, leaving a section of the stem remaining. You can place the cut node directly into water to propagate, or you can remove the first leaf near the base of the cutting and then place the node into water. If you have access to a large-leaved plant, this will be the best way to get a big-leaved plant without spending a lot of money.
Once you have your cutting, place it in water for about two to three weeks to allow rooting to begin. Change the water every few weeks to keep it fresh and help the plant grow. You can also add a golden pothos cutting to the water, as they contains a rooting hormone that helps other plants grow.
After the roots have reached 2-3 inches or have grown secondary roots, you can transfer the cutting to a pot with well-draining, rich potting soil. Water the plant a bit extra for the first few weeks while the roots acclimate, and then return to your normal watering schedule.
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Propagating Swiss cheese plants in soil
The Swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) is a tropical ornamental plant with large, heart-shaped leaves that become covered with holes as the plant ages, resembling Swiss cheese. This plant can be easily propagated from stem cuttings, air layering, or division, as long as each division includes a node—the point where a leaf develops on a stem.
To propagate a Swiss cheese plant in soil, you can follow these steps:
- Find a node with an axillary bud. Multiple leaves on your cutting will promote better rooting through photosynthesis.
- Cut 1 to 2 inches below the node, along the internode. Ensure that there is at least one leaf attached to the cutting.
- If desired, treat the cutting with a rooting hormone to promote root growth. This step is especially recommended if you are planting directly into soil without first rooting the cutting in water.
- Prepare a pot with rich, well-draining potting soil. The Swiss cheese plant prefers slightly acidic soil that is kept moist but not excessively wet.
- Make a hole in the soil and insert your cutting. Ensure that there is about 2 inches of space between the cutting and the edge of the pot.
- Keep the cutting moist and regularly check for root development. Transplant your cutting into a larger container once roots have developed.
It is important to note that the Swiss cheese plant prefers indirect light and warm, humid conditions. These plants are top-heavy and require support, such as a stake or pole, as they grow. With proper care and propagation techniques, you can successfully grow and propagate Swiss cheese plants in soil.
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Air layering method for propagation
The Swiss Cheese Plant, or Monstera deliciosa, is a popular houseplant known for its large, lush green leaves with eye-catching holes that resemble Swiss cheese. This plant is native to Central America and typically features solid green leaves, though rarer variegated forms exist. One of the easiest ways to propagate a Swiss Cheese Plant is through the air layering method, which does not require cutting the plant. Here is a step-by-step guide to propagating a Swiss Cheese Plant using the air layering method:
Identify a Healthy Node:
Look for a healthy node on a stem where roots will form. The node is typically a bumpy section on the stem near where a leaf emerges. It is important to select a node with an axillary bud to promote better rooting through photosynthesis.
Make a Small Cut Above the Node:
Using a sharp knife or pruning shears, make a small upward cut just above the node, cutting through the bark and into the cambium layer. Be sure to clean and sanitise your tools before making the cut to maintain a sterile environment and prevent the spread of diseases.
Wrap the Stem with Sphagnum Moss:
Dampen a handful of sphagnum moss with water. Gently wrap the moist sphagnum moss around the cut in the stem and the leaf node. The moss will provide moisture and support to the developing roots. Some gardeners prefer to use other materials, such as orchid bark or rice hulls, to improve airflow to the roots.
Secure with Plastic Wrap and Twist Ties:
Cover the moss-wrapped node with plastic wrap or a small clear plastic bag. Secure it in place with twist ties, string, or twine. Keep the bag open to allow airflow and moisten the moss regularly to maintain humidity.
Wait for Roots to Grow:
It usually takes about two weeks for the Swiss Cheese Plant to start developing roots. After about a month, you should see thick, white roots growing through the moss. During this time, continue to care for the parent plant as usual, providing indirect light, regular watering, and a strong structure to climb on if needed.
Cut and Repot the New Plant:
Once the roots have developed, carefully cut the stem about 2 inches (5 cm) below the roots using sharp scissors or cutting shears. Remove the plastic wrap and moss from the stem, node, and roots. Prepare a new pot with drainage holes, filling it about halfway with well-draining soil. Place the rooted cutting inside, fill the rest of the pot with soil, and give your new plant a thorough watering.
The air layering method is a convenient way to propagate Swiss Cheese Plants, especially for larger plants with established stems. It allows you to encourage root growth before making a cutting, and it doesn't require a separate container until the new plant is ready to be potted. With proper care and patience, you can successfully propagate your Swiss Cheese Plant and expand your indoor jungle!
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Pruning a Swiss cheese plant
The Swiss cheese plant, or Monstera deliciosa, is a tropical ornamental plant with large, heart-shaped leaves that become covered with holes as the plant ages, resembling Swiss cheese. This plant is known for its vine-like tendencies, as its aerial roots grow downwards from the stem and easily reach the ground. Due to its fast-growing nature, the Swiss cheese plant requires regular pruning to maintain a tidy appearance and control its growth.
Pruning Techniques:
When pruning a Swiss cheese plant, it is important to use sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors to make precise cuts. Here are some specific techniques to consider:
- Cut just below a leaf node: Identify a healthy leaf node, which is usually near where a leaf starts, and make your cut about half an inch below it. Ensure that at least one leaf remains attached to the cutting.
- Remove lower leaves: If there are multiple leaves on the stem, remove the lowest one to provide more space for the stem's nodes when propagating in water.
- Manage aerial roots: If you are growing your Swiss cheese plant on a moss pole or similar structure, you may need to prune the aerial roots to keep them from becoming unruly and overwhelming the support.
- Control plant height: Prune the plant when it becomes too tall or when it outgrows its allotted space.
Propagating Cuttings:
After pruning your Swiss cheese plant, you can propagate the cuttings to create new plants. Here are the steps to propagate the cuttings successfully:
- Place the cuttings in water: Fill a clear glass container with room-temperature water and place the cuttings in a spot with indirect or dappled sunlight. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
- Wait for root development: Within two to three weeks, you should start seeing root development. Continue until the roots are thick and about two inches long, which may take about two months.
- Transplant into soil: Prepare a potting mixture that is light and airy, such as a mix of potting soil, orchid bark, rice hulls, or perlite. Plant the cuttings in individual pots or together with the parent plant. Ensure the pot has good drainage.
- Care for new plants: Water the newly propagated plants regularly, paying attention to keeping the roots evenly moist for the first week or so while they acclimate to their new environment.
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Frequently asked questions
You can cut a Swiss cheese plant by taking a stem cutting, leaving a section of the stem remaining, and cutting just after a leaf node.
Make your cut at least half an inch below the node. The node is usually very near where a leaf starts, but it is not on the leaf itself.
You can place the cutting in water or soil. If you choose to place it in water, roots should start to form within two weeks. Once the roots are thick or around two inches long, you can transplant the cutting to soil.
If you place the cutting in water, refresh the water every few days. If you place the cutting in soil, water it thoroughly.
If the cutting has no roots, you can try placing it in water in the hopes that roots will form.
