Tips & Tricks

Planting with Plugs

Plants propagating in jars of water.

Planting with plugs, or young plants, has never been easier. These small wonders come ready to cultivate in your chosen medium. Some plugs may already have roots while others only have nodes, but either way, they're ready to grow. Be it in water or soil, we'll to go over both propagation methods to help you decide which is right for you.

Water

Channel your inner mad-scientist and transform your windowsill into a living laboratory with water propagation. With this method, you can witness firsthand the magic of roots growing from your plug.

  1. Get a Propagation Stand or any clear container and fill it with clean water
  2. Place your plug in the water, immersing the base of the stem and any roots that have already grown
  3. Position the container in a spot with bright indirect light
  4. Change the water weekly to keep it fresh and clear

With some patience, you'll see roots reaching out into the water in no time. Just remember, while growing plants in water is a beautiful process, it's not an ideal long-term solution for all plant types. Do a little homework to see how long your plant can survive in water and have a grow plan in place.

Plant plugs in a propagation stand.

Soil

Going back to nature's way, soil propagation puts your plug right where many plants are happiest. It provides a natural transition for your green baby as it grows and flourishes.
  1. Choose a pot with drainage and fill it with Potting Mix.
  2. Make a hole in the center, then gently tuck in your plug
  3. Water until it begins to drain
  4. Find a warm spot with bright indirect light for your potted plug

While soil propagation requires a little more guesswork than water (after all, you can't see the roots growing), it's a tried-and-true method that most plants love.

Planting a plug


Whether you prefer the spectacle of water propagation or the earthy practicality of soil propagation, there's no greater reward than watching your plant plug grow. As long as you understand your plant's preferences and provide the right care and love, you're young leaflings will be full, established houseplants in no time, and you get to take all the credit.

Still have questions? Head to our Help Center and we'll get you sorted.

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