Hello, aspiring propagator! It is I, the Fiddle Leaf Fig, *Ficus lyrata*. You wish to create a new one of me from a piece of an existing one? This is a process we plants call vegetative propagation, and it is a most excellent plan. From my perspective, it is a journey of cellular regeneration, relying on the innate ability of my stem tissues to form new roots. I shall guide you through this process from my point of view.
First, you must choose a healthy stem tip from my body. Look for a section that is mature but still vigorous, about 12 to 18 inches long, with several lush, green leaves. Please, use a very sharp, clean blade. A ragged tear from dull scissors will crush my vascular tissues and invite pathogens. Make a clean, angled cut just below a node. The node is a critical lump on my stem from where a leaf emerges; it contains a high concentration of meristematic cells—undifferentiated cells that are the architects of new growth. These cells are the very foundation of your new plant.
Immediately after the cut, I will begin to weep a milky, sticky sap. This latex is my defense mechanism to seal the wound and deter pests. You must gently wipe it away. Next, carefully remove the leaves from the bottom one-third to one-half of the cutting. Leaves are magnificent, but they transpire—lose water. With no roots to draw up more water, too many leaves will desiccate the cutting before it can establish itself. You may leave the top two or three leaves to continue performing photosynthesis, creating the essential energy for root creation.
You have two primary choices for my rooting medium, each with pros and cons from my cellular viewpoint.
Water Propagation: Placing my stem in a clear glass of water allows you to observe the fascinating process of root formation. The water keeps my tissues hydrated and, after a few weeks, I will activate those meristematic cells at the node to form primordial root bumps, which will then elongate into proper roots. Change the water weekly to keep oxygen levels high and prevent bacterial rot.
Soil Propagation: For this, many humans dip my cut end into a rooting hormone powder first. This is not strictly necessary, but it provides a helpful boost of auxins—the plant hormones that stimulate root development. Then, you will plant me directly into a moist, well-draining potting mix. From deep within this dark, moist environment, my stem will sense the perfect conditions and trigger root growth. This method involves a transition shock, but it means I won't have to later adjust from water roots to soil roots.
Now, you must provide patience and the right environment. Place my cutting in a spot with very bright, indirect light. Direct sun will scorch my vulnerable leaves and stem. Maintain a warm and humid environment; think of my native jungle. A humidity dome or a regular misting will slow water loss from my leaves. For water propagation, wait until my roots are a few inches long before potting me up. For soil propagation, resist the urge to tug on me to check for roots. A gentle tug that meets resistance after a few weeks is a sure sign that I have anchored myself and am beginning my new life as an independent plant.
