Brits urged to propagate these 6 plants in October before cold temperatures set in
An expert shared six plants you can propagate this month for a burst of growth come spring.
As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, gardening doesn’t have to come to a halt. In fact, October offers an ideal opportunity for houseplant enthusiasts to focus on propagation, creating new plants from existing ones.
According to Connor Towning, Lead Horticulturist at Beards & Daisies, autumn provides a calm and steady environment for propagation. “While growth naturally slows during this time of year, many houseplants still root successfully,” he explained. “Cooler temperatures and softer light reduce stress on cuttings, allowing them to develop healthy root systems before winter.”
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Jo Lambell, founder of Beards & Daisies, shared her top tips for successful autumn propagation.
The founder suggests that, as days grow shorter, it’s important to give your cuttings as much light as possible, placing them in the brightest spot available while avoiding direct sunlight.
Keep indoor temperatures steady between 18 and 22°C, steering clear of draughts and cold windowsills that can shock delicate plants.
Because growth naturally slows at this time of year, water sparingly, just enough to keep the soil lightly damp. Above all, be patient.
Rooting takes longer in autumn, but this slower pace allows plants to conserve energy and build strength beneath the surface.
“Propagation in autumn is about patience and preparation,” said Lambell.
“Even if roots take a little longer to appear, your plants are quietly building strength beneath the surface. Come spring, you’ll be rewarded with healthy new growth and thriving greenery.”
Six plants to propagate this October
1. Satin Pothos (Scindapsus pictus argyraeus)
A reliable choice even in cooler months. Cut just below a node and place the vine in water with bright, indirect light. Roots form steadily, even as daylight shortens.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Still producing baby plantlets into autumn, spider plants are easy to multiply. Detach a rooted plantlet or peg it into soil until established.
3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Perfect for slow propagation through the colder season. Insert a leaf cutting upright in soil — rhizomes will quietly form underground over winter, ready to sprout in spring.
4. Snake Plant (Sansevieria laurentii)
Tough and tolerant of low light, snake plants root well in water or well-draining soil. Autumn propagation helps them prepare for vigorous spring growth.
5. Monstera deliciosa
Take a cutting just below a node with an aerial root and root it in water indoors. Stable, warm conditions encourage steady growth before dormancy sets in.
6. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Succulent lovers should take note, jade plant cuttings thrive in October. Allow the ends to callus for a few days, then place on gritty compost. Rooting is slow but steady.
