Root first let it establish in a pot for a few weeks prior to cutting

Either way is viable, but I like the remove-it-before-planting option, as that will give you long-term excitement to see it leaf up and out. If the cuttings have no roots, mist them only after you've planted them. Once growth is evident, you can begin watering the cuttings.

thanks guys

hehe I've done both; stabbed them multiples into gallon pots of dry grit

some I've snipped every leaf & unwanted sidegrowth & stem off; others have left some leaves and only snipped off side bits that got in the way of its neighbours

they now all sit in dry shade outside for a few wks before any refreshments; unless we get more 40degC days this summer :) then they'll probably get most blown over from my hosing down of the main jungle nearby