Expert: Mike Mascio - 8/14/2006

Question
Have two plants both mother and mother in law want a clipping.  Do we have to take out by the roots or can we clip and will it reroot itself?

Answer
Debbie, I would definitely take a couple of cuttings. It is the fatest and easiest method of propagating a plant.

Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. Dip the cutting in a rooting compound. You can purchase this product at any garden center. Stick the cutting one inch into a good potting mix. Be sure to thoroughly wet the soil prior to planting.

Finally, cover the pot with a clear piece of lightweight plastic. Place the pot in indirect sunlight on an east window seal or under fluorescent lighting. After two weeks, check to see if the plant has rooted by slightly pulling on the stem. If you feel resistance, remove the plastic covering and be sure to keep the soil moist. The plant should then be treated as any other seedling.

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike