How to Propagate Plants in Minnesota: A Beginner-Friendly Guide

If you’ve ever wished your favorite houseplant could multiply, good news: it can. Plant propagation—basically making new plants from cuttings—is one of the most cost-effective and rewarding ways to grow your indoor or outdoor garden. Here in Minnesota, where our growing season is short and winters are long, propagation is a great way to keep green life thriving all year.

Whether you’re just dipping your toes into gardening or you’ve been at it for decades, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the basics—without the overly technical jargon.

Step 1: Pick the Right Plant

Not every plant is easy to propagate, but plenty of common ones are perfect for beginners.

Indoor favorites that thrive in Minnesota homes:

• Pothos & philodendron (tough and forgiving)

• Spider plants (they practically volunteer)

• Jade plants & succulents (low-maintenance, slow growers)

Outdoor options for Minnesota summers:

• Hydrangeas (a yard favorite in Minneapolis and St. Paul neighborhoods)

• Roses (yes, even hardy varieties like Canadian Explorer)

• Herbs like mint, basil, and oregano (great for both pots and raised beds)

💡 Tip: Local greenhouses like Bachman’s or Mother Earth Gardens often sell starter plants that you can later propagate.

Step 2: Take a Healthy Cutting

The cutting is your “starter.” Think of it like a sourdough starter, but for plants.

• Stem cuttings: Snip just below a node (the bump where leaves grow). Aim for 3–4 leaves above the cut.

• Leaf cuttings: Great for succulents. Choose a plump, healthy leaf.

• Root cuttings: Certain perennials can be divided underground—best done in spring or fall.

Always use clean, sterilized scissors or pruners (because plant infections are real).

Step 3: Prep & Propagate

There are a few ways to get your cutting to grow roots:

Water method (super easy):

• Place the cutting in a glass of water with the node submerged.

• Keep it in bright, indirect light.

• Change the water every few days.

• Expect roots in 1–2 weeks.

Soil method:

• Dip the cutting in rooting hormone (optional but helps).

• Plant in moist, well-draining soil.

• Cover loosely with a plastic bag to trap humidity—like a DIY greenhouse.

Succulent method:

• Let the cutting callus (dry out) for a day or two.

• Plant in sandy/cactus mix.

• Water lightly, only when dry.

Step 4: Care & Patience

Minnesota winters mean low light and dry air, so your cuttings will need some extra love:

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight or a small grow light (especially November–March).

• Moisture: Keep the soil damp but not soggy.

• Humidity: If your house is dry (thanks, radiators), group cuttings together or use a pebble tray.

Remember—propagation takes time. Some plants root fast; others take weeks.

Step 5: Transplant & Enjoy

When your roots are about 2–3 inches long, move the new plant into its own pot with fresh soil. Keep watering regularly, and soon enough you’ll have a brand-new plant to brighten your home or yard.

Bonus Minnesota Tips

• Label your jars or pots so you don’t mix up basil with mint.

• Share the love: propagated plants make great gifts.

• Keep learning locally: Workshops at Minnesota State Horticultural Society or classes at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum are excellent ways to expand your skills.

Final Thoughts

Propagation isn’t just a gardening hack—it’s a sustainable way to bring more life into your home and yard without spending a fortune at the garden center. In a state where we’re indoors half the year, keeping green things growing connects us to the seasons and adds a little brightness to long winters.

So grab a pair of scissors, start small, and see what grows. You might be surprised how addictive (and satisfying) it is.