Learn How to Grow Watermelon Peperomia from Leaves in a few simple steps and invite some greenery with this variegated beauty!
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance variegated houseplant that you can clone easily to spruce up your interior or for gifting, then here it is! Read on to learn How to Grow Watermelon Peperomia from Leaves in this detailed article below.
Get the Best Care Tips for Watermelon Peperomia here
Watermelon Peperomia Information
Also known as watermelon begonia (Peperomia argyreia), this perennial gains fame due to striking patterned foliage that looks like a watermelon rind with a shimmering shine. Native to South America, watermelon peperomia has a compact growth habit and grows naturally in the rainforest. It can be up to 8-12 inches tall and 6-8 inches wide.
Check out the Best Peperomia Varieties here
How to Grow Watermelon Peperomia from Leaves
Note: Unlike most plants, watermelon peperomia does not branch at the spot where the stem is cut, so when a leaf is snipped, it kills that stem permanently.
1. Taking a Leaf
Select a healthy leaf and cut it along with 1-2 inches of stem. Take multiple leaves as it will ensure successful propagation, if one leaf fails to root, others will.
2. Trim the Petiole
It’d be a good idea to trim the attached petiole to about 1/4 of an inch. This will speed up the overall propagation process.
3. Time to Plant
Fill a pot with a seed starting mix and pre-moisten it. Place the leaves on top in a way that the petiole remains in contact with the growing medium.
4. Make a Small Greenhouse
Cover the leaves using a glass dome or a plastic bag to speed up the propagation. It will make a mini makeshift greenhouse, which will keep the moisture and humidity intact.
5. Keep Caring
It is important that you keep the growing slightly medium moist all the time and ensure the leaves get plenty of bright and indirect light. It will take 4-6 weeks to grow roots.
Key Takeaways
- The best time to propagate watermelon peperomia is spring or summer. You can also do it in the fall and even in winters in a tropical climate.
- Instead of saturating with a watering can, use a plant mister to spray water around the propagating leaves.
- You can also use honey or aloe vera gel as a rooting hormone.
- Avoid taking thin leaves or the ones with minor cracks or signs of discoloration.
