I’m always looking for ways to expand my indoor garden without breaking the bank.
That’s why I fell in love with propagating plants from pups! It’s like getting free plants, and there’s something magical about watching these tiny offshoots grow into full-fledged beauties.
Today, I’m excited to share my experiences and tips on 13 indoor plants you can easily grow from pups. Let’s dive in!
What are pups?
Pups, also known as plantlets or offsets, are like the adorable babies of the plant world. These little offshoots grow from the base of the parent plant and can be separated to create new, independent plants. It’s nature’s way of multiplication, and it’s absolutely fascinating to watch!
The best part? Propagating from pups is a fantastic way to get free plants. As a mom always looking to save a few bucks, I can’t resist the appeal of expanding my indoor jungle without spending a dime. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with the kids – they love helping me find and nurture these little plant babies!
13 Indoor Plants You Can Grow from Pups
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Snake plants were my gateway into the world of pup propagation. To grow these, I carefully remove the pups from the parent plant, making sure to keep their roots intact. Then, I plant them in well-draining soil and water just enough to keep the soil lightly moist. It’s amazing how quickly these tough little plants take root and start growing!
2. Anthurium
Anthuriums hold a special place in my heart – they were a gift from my mother-in-law. To propagate these beauties, I gently remove an offset from the mother plant and pot it in anthurium-specific potting mix. As it grows, I make sure to repot it, giving it fresh soil and more space to thrive.
3. Philodendron
Philodendrons are my go-to plants for adding a tropical touch to any room. When propagating, I look for a healthy pup with a few leaves and a good root system. After cutting it from the mother plant, I plant it in well-draining soil and place it in a spot with bright, indirect light. Before I know it, I have a new philodendron to enjoy or share with friends!
4. Spider Plant
Spider plants are probably the easiest plants I’ve ever propagated. Those dangling spiderettes are just begging to be turned into new plants! I simply cut them from the mother plant and pot them up in a good potting soil mix. With regular watering, they establish roots quickly, and soon I have more spider plants than I know what to do with!
5. Bromeliad
Bromeliads add such a unique touch to my indoor garden. To propagate these, I carefully remove a pup from the mother plant and plant it in a well-draining soil mix or a bromeliad-specific potting mix. Bright indirect light is key for these beauties, and they never fail to bring a smile to my face.
6. Chinese Money Plant
These quirky little plants are a favorite in my home office. Propagating them is a breeze – I just remove the pups from the mother plant and pot them in moist soil. The trick is to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged, and to provide bright, indirect light. In no time, I have adorable mini money plants dotting my windowsills.
7. Aloe
Aloes are my go-to plants for both decor and practical use. When propagating, I look for pups that are at least 2 inches tall with plump leaves. After carefully removing them from the parent plant, I pot them in succulent-specific soil. A sunny spot and regular watering are all they need to flourish.
8. Easter Cactus
These are a recent addition to my plant family, but I’ve fallen in love with their delicate blooms. To propagate, I use a sharp knife to cut a pup with some roots attached. Then, I replant it in a separate pot with well-draining soil. Bright indirect light and regular watering help these little ones establish themselves quickly.
9. Air Plants
Air plants were a bit intimidating at first, but now I can’t get enough of them! To propagate, I carefully remove a pup with its root system intact and transplant it to a new pot with fresh air plant mix. After a thorough watering and placement in bright, indirect light, these little ones take off like nobody’s business.
10. Parlor Palm
Parlor palms bring a touch of tropical elegance to my living room. To propagate, I separate the pups or offsets from the main plant and pot them in well-draining soil. I’ve found that maintaining a warm, humid environment with indirect light works wonders. As they establish, I gradually move them to sunnier spots.
11. Bird of Paradise
My bird of paradise is like the diva of my indoor garden – beautiful but a bit demanding. When I spot a pup or offset, I dig a hole slightly larger than its rooting material and plant it carefully. Keeping the soil moist and providing plenty of sunlight is key. With a little patience, these stunning plants really take off!
12. Elephant Ear
Elephant ears add drama to any space with their large, stunning leaves. To propagate, I carefully remove a pup with roots attached and plant it in a container with tropical plant potting mix. Keeping the soil moist is crucial for these water-loving plants.
13. Strawberry Begonia
Last but not least, strawberry begonias are a charming addition to my plant collection. I gently remove pups from the base of the plant and pot them in small containers with well-draining soil. Regular watering until they’re established is all it takes to grow these delightful plants.