Autumn is definitely upon us, with Storm Amy delivering very strong winds and heavy rain across the country.
But even as gardeners are being forced indoors, there’s still plenty to do with your houseplants, says Connor Towning, Lead Horticulturist at Beards & Daisies.
This time of year can be ideal for propagating potted plants.
Although growth naturally slows compared to the peak of summer, many houseplants still thrive when propagated in September and October. Cooler temperatures and softer light can reduce stress on cuttings, helping them develop strong roots before winter really sets in.
Connor has listed his top six plants to propagate during autumn, while Beards & Daisies founder Jo Lambell adds her own handy tips for success.
Satin Pothos (Scindapsus Pictus Argyraeus)
Pothos is one of the most reliable plants to propagate in autumn. Connor explains, “Simply cut a healthy vine just below a node, pop it into water, and place it somewhere bright but away from direct sun. Roots will form steadily, even as the days shorten, and you’ll have new trailing plants to brighten up darker months.”
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants often send out plenty of baby plantlets in early autumn, making now the ideal time to pot them up. Connor advises, “Snip off a baby plant with roots, or pin it to soil until it takes. Spider plants are hardy, making them easy to propagate in autumn.”
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Slow and steady wins the race with ZZ plants, making them well-suited to autumn propagation. Connor explains, “Take a leaf cutting and place it upright in soil. While ZZ plants root slowly, cooler months encourage strong rhizome development below the surface, ready for growth in spring.”
Snake Plant (Sansevieria Laurentii)
Snake plants are resilient and easy to propagate in cooler seasons. Connor recommends, “Cut a leaf into sections and place them in water or directly into well-draining compost. They don’t need much warmth or light to begin rooting, making autumn a great time to multiply your collection.”
Monstera deliciosa ‘Swiss cheese’
Monstera cuttings take well in early autumn, especially if they include an aerial root. Connor explains, “Cut just below a node where a small root nub is visible, then place the cutting in water. The steady indoor conditions of autumn allow roots to establish before growth slows in winter.”
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Succulent types like Jade Plants are excellent for autumn propagation through leaf or stem cuttings. Connor suggests, “Let a healthy leaf or stem dry for a few days, then place it on gritty soil. It will root slowly over winter and be ready to grow in spring.”
Jo adds that for best results, you should place new cuttings in the brightest possible spot without direct sun, as daylight hours are shorter.
“Mind the temperature,” she says. “Keep plants away from draughts or cold windowsills; they prefer conditions around 18–22°C.”
Don’t be tempted to over-water young plants either. “With slower growth,” Jo says, “cuttings need less water. Keep soil lightly moist but never soggy.”
Finally, she adds, be patient: “Rooting often takes longer in autumn. Don’t worry if progress seems slow; many plants are simply conserving energy for spring.”