How to Propagate Green Prayer Plant the Right Way

Green prayer plant, also known as maranta or calathea, is a popular houseplant with attractive leaves that fold up at night like praying hands. It is native to Brazil and is easy to care for, making it a great addition to any plant collection. If you want to expand your plant collection or share this beauty with friends and family, propagating green prayer plants is a cost-effective way to do so. In this article, we will guide you on how to propagate green prayer plants the right way.

Propagating green prayer plants through division

The easiest and most common way to propagate green prayer plants is through division. This method involves separating the existing parent plant into smaller clumps that each have their own root system. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose a healthy parent plant
   Select a mature and healthy green prayer plant that has several stems or shoots. The best time to propagate is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

2. Prepare for division
   Carefully remove the parent plant from the pot and shake off any excess soil from the roots. Use a clean and sharp knife or scissors to divide the plant into smaller clumps. Each clump should have at least one stem and some roots attached.

3. Replant the clumps
   Fill new pots with well-draining potting mix and make a hole in the center of each pot. Carefully place each clump into its own pot, making sure that the roots are fully covered with soil. Water the newly planted clumps thoroughly.

4. Care for the new plants
   After replanting, it’s important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until new growth appears, which usually takes 2-4 weeks. Place the pots in a bright but indirect sunlight spot, away from drafts and direct heat sources.

Propagating green prayer plants through stem cuttings

Another way to propagate green prayer plants is through stem cuttings. This method involves cutting a stem from the parent plant and rooting it in water or soil. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose a healthy stem
   Select a mature and healthy green prayer plant that has several stems or shoots. Look for a stem that has at least two nodes where leaves are attached.

2. Take a cutting
   Use a clean and sharp knife or scissors to cut the stem just below the second node from the top. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the stem.

3. Root the cutting in water
   Place the cutting in a jar or vase filled with room temperature water, making sure that the bottom half of the stem is submerged. Change the water every few days to prevent bacteria growth and rotting. After 2-4 weeks, roots should appear.

4. Root the cutting in soil
   Once roots have appeared, carefully transfer the cutting into a pot filled with well-draining potting mix. Water thoroughly and keep it in a bright but indirect sunlight spot.

FAQ

How long does it take for a green prayer plant to root?

It typically takes 2-4 weeks for green prayer plant cuttings to root in water or soil.

When is the best time to propagate green prayer plants?

The best time to propagate green prayer plants is in spring or early summer when they are actively growing.

How often should I water newly propagated green prayer plants?

Water newly propagated green prayer plants when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Can I propagate green prayer plants through leaf cuttings?

No, propagating green prayer plants through leaf cuttings is not recommended as they don’t have enough nodes to grow new roots and stems.

In conclusion, propagating green prayer plants is an easy and cost-effective way to expand your plant collection or share this beauty with others. Whether you choose to propagate through division or stem cuttings, with proper care, you’ll soon have a new green prayer plant to admire.