How to propagate Chinese evergreen
Aglaonema commutatum
Chinese evergreen propagates best by division in spring. Each new plant already has its own roots, so there is no rooting stage.
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How to propagate by division
Division multiplies Chinese evergreen by splitting the root ball in spring, so each section has its own roots and shoots. The new plants settle in quickly because they already have a mature root system.
Wear gloves before cutting or dividing. Sap or foliage can irritate skin. Avoid contact with eyes and mouth, and wash your hands after handling. Keep cut pieces out of reach of children and pets.
- 01
Water the plant thoroughly the day before dividing: well-hydrated roots are more resilient.
- 02
Slide the plant gently out of its pot. If it’s stuck, run a knife around the inside edge.
- 03
Shake off the loose potting mix to expose the root system. For clumping plants, you’ll see distinct crowns or growing points.
- 04
Tease the clumps apart by hand where possible. For tightly bound roots, use a clean sharp knife or pruning shears. Each section needs at least one healthy shoot and a decent portion of roots.
- 05
Pot each division into fresh, well-draining potting mix at the same depth it was growing before.
- 06
Water gently, then keep the divisions out of strong direct sun for 1–2 weeks while they settle. Skip fertilizer for the first month.
- 07
New growth is the sign that the plant has adjusted. After 4–6 weeks, resume normal care.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are a reliable way to propagate Chinese evergreen. Each cutting contains a node (the small bump or joint where a leaf attaches), and that node is where new roots will grow.
- 01
Choose a healthy stem with at least one node and one or two leaves. In spring or early summer the plant is growing actively, so cuttings root fastest.
- 02
Cut just below a node using clean, sharp scissors or a knife. A cutting of 10–15 cm (4–6 in) with one or two leaves is ideal.
- 03
Remove any leaves from the bottom 5 cm (2 in) so they don’t rot in water or soil.
- 04
Water method: place the cut end in a glass of room-temperature water, keeping the leaves out of the water. Change the water every three days. Move to soil once roots are 2–3 cm (0.8–1.2 in) long.
- 05
Soil method: dip the cut end in rooting powder (optional), then push it 3–4 cm (1.2–1.6 in) into damp potting mix. Cover loosely with a clear bag to keep humidity high.
- 06
Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light and warmth (above 18 °C / 64 °F). Avoid direct sun, which wilts the cutting before roots form.
- 07
Roots typically appear within 2–5 weeks. New leaves alone do not prove that roots have formed. Check for visible roots or gentle resistance in the mix without pulling the cutting out. Once rooted, gradually increase ventilation and remove any cover over about two weeks before moving to normal care.
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Common questions
What is the easiest way to propagate Chinese evergreen?
Division is the easiest option when the plant already has several rooted clumps. Remove it from the pot in spring, separate a clump with at least one healthy shoot and its own roots, then repot it at the same depth.
Where should I cut Chinese evergreen for propagation?
For a stem cutting, cut just below a node, the joint where a leaf attaches. Keep at least one node and one or two leaves on the cutting, and remove any leaves that would sit in water or potting mix.
Can Chinese evergreen cuttings root in water?
Yes. Keep the node under room-temperature water and the leaves above it, change the water every few days, and move the cutting into potting mix once the roots are about 2 to 3 cm (0.8–1.2 in) long.
Propagation guidance is based on genus-level horticultural knowledge. Individual specimens can vary.
7 steps · 4–6 weeks · Last reviewed: