What is a common method for propagating houseplants?

Leaf or stem cuttings are a widely used method for propagating houseplants due to their simplicity and effectiveness. This method involves taking a portion of a plant—either a leaf or a stem—and encouraging it to develop roots in a suitable growing medium. Many houseplants can regenerate from cuttings, making this method popular among both novice and experienced gardeners.

The success of cuttings relies on the ability of the plant tissue to form roots in response to the right environmental conditions, such as moisture and warmth. This technique is ideal for numerous houseplants, such as pothos, philodendrons, and succulents, as they readily produce roots from their cuttings when cared for properly.

Other methods like seed sowing can be more time-consuming and require specific conditions for germination. Layering involves promoting roots on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant, which can be less practical for many houseplants. Grafting requires joining two different plants together, which can be complex and is typically used for specific types of plants, such as certain fruit trees or roses, rather than standard houseplants.