How to Propagate Calathea Rattlesnake Plant:
Propogation Made Easy

Calathea rattlesnake plant, also known as Calathea lancifolia or spear-shaped calathea, is a popular houseplant due to its unique foliage pattern and ease of care. Propagating this plant is a great way to expand your collection or share the joy of growing with friends and family. In this article, we will discuss how to propagate Calathea rattlesnake plant using two simple methods.

Method 1: Propagating Calathea Rattlesnake Plant through Division

Division is a common method of propagating houseplants that produce offsets or new shoots from their base. Calathea rattlesnake plant can be propagated through division when it has outgrown its container or has multiple stems.

Step 1: Prepare the plant and tools

• Water the plant a day before propagation to keep it hydrated.
• Prepare a clean pair of pruning shears or scissors.

Step 2: Remove the plant from its container

• Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen the soil around the roots.
• Shake off any excess soil and separate any stems that are not connected to the main root system.

Step 3: Divide the plant

• Carefully cut through the root ball with your pruning shears or scissors to separate the plant into two or more sections.
• Make sure each section has enough roots and leaves to sustain growth.

Step 4: Repot the new plants

• Plant each divided section in a new container with fresh potting soil.
• Water thoroughly and place in a shaded area for a few days before moving it back to its original location.

Method 2: Propagating Calathea Rattlesnake Plant through Stem Cuttings

Stem cutting propagation is another simple method that works well for Calathea rattlesnake plants. This method involves taking cuttings from healthy stems and rooting them in soil or water.

Step 1: Prepare the plant and tools

• Choose a healthy stem that has at least two nodes and leaves.
• Prepare a clean pair of pruning shears or scissors.

Step 2: Take stem cuttings

• Cut a stem that is about four inches long just below a node using your pruning shears or scissors.
• Remove any leaves near the bottom of the stem.

Step 3: Root the cuttings

Water Method

• Place the stem cutting in a jar filled with water.
• Change the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth.
• After about four weeks, roots should appear on the stem.
• Once roots are visible, transfer the cutting into a pot with soil.

Soil Method

• Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder.
• Plant the stem cutting in moist potting soil.
• Cover the pot with plastic wrap to create a humid environment.
• Place in indirect light and keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
• After about three weeks, roots should appear on the stem.

FAQ

Q. How often should I water my propagated Calathea rattlesnake plant?

A. Water your propagated plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Do not overwater as this can cause root rot.

Q. Can I propagate my Calathea rattlesnake plant during winter?

A. It is best to propagate your Calathea rattlesnake plant during its active growing season in spring or summer for faster growth.

Q. How long does it take for my propagated Calathea rattlesnake plant to grow?

A. It can take several months for your propagated plant to grow into a mature plant, depending on environmental factors such as light, temperature, and humidity.

In conclusion, propagating Calathea rattlesnake plant is an easy and rewarding experience that can help you grow your collection and share your love of plants with others. Whether you choose division or stem cuttings, following these simple steps will result in healthy new plants that will thrive in your home.