I was gifted a cutting of Rhaphidophora tetrasperma in a mix of perlite and clay pellets. It has no roots yet, but appears to have two growth nodes: one high up on the stem and another just on the surface of the growing medium. How can I encourage its growth?

Diane Yeo

Rhaphidophora tetrasperma, colloquially known as the Mini Monstera, is a common foliage aroid species. Your stem cuttings need time to take root and produce new growth. Roots will be produced first, as the plant needs them to take up water and nutrients.

You seem to be growing the cutting via a semi-hydroponics system. Add a diluted nutrient solution just below the roots once they have been produced. Avoid flooding the root system later on, as this can cut off oxygen and kill it.

Since the cutting has no roots yet, fill the container until the cut ends are submerged in water, so they do not dry out.

My dwarf cucumber plant, which I placed in my HDB corridor, was fruiting well, but has been swamped with spider mites. They seem to prefer this plant to the others around it. How can I treat the plant?

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