The Wandering Jew plant (Tradescantia spp.) is known for its quick growth and stunning purple-and-green leaves—but what makes it even more rewarding is how easily it propagates from cuttings. Whether you root them in water or soil, using the correct cutting technique is key to success. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to take, prepare, and use cuttings to grow new healthy plants.
Part of our Wandering Jew Plant Propagation Guide (Pillar Page)

1. Why Use Stem Cuttings for Propagation

Stem cuttings are the fastest and most reliable way to propagate Wandering Jew plants. These plants root so readily from cuttings that you can easily create new plants for gifts, decor, or to fill out leggy pots.

According to The Royal Horticultural Society, Tradescantia is one of the best candidates for stem cutting propagation due to its soft tissue and rapid growth rate.

2. Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following:

• Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
  
• A healthy, established Wandering Jew plant
• Clean glass jar (for water propagation) or pot with soil
• Well-draining potting mix (for soil propagation)
• Optional: Rooting hormone
  

Always sanitize your tools to avoid spreading disease or bacteria to your cuttings.

3. How to Identify the Right Cutting

Look for:

• A 4–6 inch stem that’s green, firm, and free of pests
• At least one visible leaf node (this is where roots will emerge)
• Stems that are not too woody or too young

Avoid:

• Yellowing, drooping, or damaged stems

Cuttings with flower buds (they take energy away from rooting)

4. How to Prepare a Cutting

1. Use clean scissors to cut just below a leaf node.
2. Remove the bottom 2–3 leaves to expose the node.
3. If using rooting hormone, dip the cut end lightly into powder.
4. Decide on your propagation method—soil or water.

Need help deciding? Explore both options:

• How to Propagate in Water

How to Propagate in Soil

5. Rooting in Water vs Soil

Tip: Root several cuttings at once for a fuller look when planting.

According to Gardening Know How, soil propagation is ideal if you want a plant that acclimates faster post-rooting.

6. How to Boost Success Rate

Follow these tips:

• Propagate in spring or early summer when the plant is in active growth
• Keep the environment warm and humid (65–75°F, 50–60% humidity)
• Place in bright, indirect light—avoid direct sun
• Change water every 3–4 days if propagating in water
• Mist lightly if using soil to prevent drying out

Consider using a humidity dome or ziplock bag with holes to retain moisture.

More tips: Best Time to Propagate Wandering Jew Plant

7. FAQs

Q: Can I use leaves to propagate?
A: No—Wandering Jew propagation requires a stem with a node. Leaves alone won’t root.

Q: How long until I see roots?
A: In water: 7–10 days. In soil: 10–14 days with proper care.

Q: Should I take multiple cuttings?
A: Yes—planting 3–5 cuttings together creates a fuller look in pots or baskets.