Selling Size : Single Plant | 2.5''Pot Included | Secure Packing
Propagating a Philodendron brandtianum from a node cutting is a rewarding process, and with the right care, you'll have a new plant in no time. The key is to provide a stable and humid environment for the node to develop roots.
Here's a breakdown of the care for Philodendron brandtianum node propagation:
1. The Cutting
Select a healthy stem: Choose a healthy, vibrant stem from the mother plant that has at least one or two nodes. The nodes are the small bumps on the stem where new leaves and roots will grow.
Make a clean cut: Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem about 4-6 inches long, just below a node. A clean cut prevents damage and reduces the risk of rot.
Remove lower leaves: Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, so they don't sit in water or the rooting medium, which can lead to rot.
2. Rooting Medium
You have a few options for rooting your cutting, with each having its pros and cons:
Water: This is a popular and easy method because you can visually monitor root development.
Place the cutting in a clear glass or jar of water, ensuring the nodes are fully submerged but the leaves are not.
Place the jar in a warm spot with bright, indirect light.
Change the water every few days to keep it clean and prevent bacterial growth. Some growers also suggest letting the water get slightly stale as it may contain hormones that help with root growth, but changing it is a safer bet for beginners.
Roots should begin to appear in a few weeks.
Sphagnum Moss: This medium is excellent for retaining moisture and providing a great environment for root growth.
Moisten the sphagnum moss and place it in a container.
Tuck the node of your cutting into the moss, ensuring it's in contact with the damp moss.
Keep the moss consistently moist but not soggy. You can place the container in a propagation box or a plastic bag to maintain high humidity.
Soil: You can also root directly in a soil mix.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as an aroid mix with perlite, coconut coir, and orchid bark.
Optional: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
Plant the cutting in the soil, making sure at least one node is buried.
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Placing the pot in a high-humidity environment will help.
3. Environmental Conditions
Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Direct sun can scorch the leaves and damage your cutting. A location near an east or west-facing window is often ideal.
Humidity: High humidity is crucial for successful propagation. Philodendron brandtianum is a tropical plant and thrives in humidity levels of 60% or higher.
Use a humidifier nearby.
Place the cutting in a propagation box or a clear plastic bag to create a mini-greenhouse.
Use a pebble tray filled with water to increase humidity around the plant.
Temperature: Maintain a warm environment, ideally between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Keep your cutting away from cold drafts or sudden temperature drops.
4. Transitioning to Soil
Once your cutting has developed a good root system (typically when the roots are a few inches long), it's time to transition it to a permanent pot.
Choose a pot with drainage holes: This is essential to prevent root rot.
Use a well-draining soil mix: A chunky aroid mix is best, as it allows for good aeration and drainage while retaining some moisture.
Plant carefully: Gently place the rooted cutting in the new pot, covering the roots with soil and lightly patting it down to secure the plant.
Maintain moisture: For the first week or so, keep the soil consistently moist to help the plant acclimate to its new medium. Then, you can transition to a more regular watering schedule, allowing the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out between waterings.
