Propagating Giant Philodendron: Use Cuttings, Not Trunks

You have a giant philodendron with 4 large ground-hugging trunks, trailing roots, and vertical foliage tips. Want to cut a trunk and propagate it, or root it before cutting.

Answer

You can prune up to 1/3 without shock, but trunks won’t root. Propagation requires non-woody, supple cuttings.

Cutting Method

1. Take pencil-length cutting, remove all but top 1–2 leaves.
2. Dip in rooting hormone.
3. Plant 2″ deep in 4″ pot with good potting soil.
4. Water deeply, cover with clear plastic (greenhouse effect).
5. Place in east window or under fluorescent lights.
6. Roots in a few weeks; then treat as seedling.