As a designer who also loves growing plants, I often propagate my houseplants. Giving away or swapping the plant babies is a rewarding project—and if you take up the same hobby, you can give yourself a pat on the back for practicing environmentalism and frugality.

Depending on the plant, you’ll use one of several propagation methods—from rooting a leaf to taking a stem cutting to coaxing new roots to grow in water. Whatever method you choose, multiplying your houseplants will yield satisfying results.

How to do it: 

1. Cut off three to five inches from a top or a side branch, just below where the leaf meets the stem.

2. Carefully pull off the lower leaves and dust the cut end in rooting hormone.

3. Place the stem in your decorative jar with water. 

4. When the roots get to be about a half-inch long, remove from the water and plant in potting soil.