The plant commonly known as the Money Plant, or Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), is a popular houseplant characterized by its long, trailing vines and heart-shaped foliage. This tropical evergreen is celebrated for its low-maintenance nature, making it an excellent choice for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Pothos is recognized for its ability to filter common indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene, contributing to improved indoor air quality.
Essential Environmental Conditions
The Pothos plant thrives best in conditions that mimic its native tropical environment, with its primary requirement being bright, indirect light. Placing the plant a few feet away from an east- or west-facing window often provides the ideal illumination without the danger of harsh sun exposure. While the Pothos is known for its tolerance of lower light, reduced light levels will significantly slow its growth rate.
For variegated varieties, such as ‘Golden’ or ‘Marble Queen’, insufficient light can cause the patterned foliage to lose its coloration and revert to solid green. Conversely, direct and intense afternoon sunlight must be avoided as it can easily scorch the leaves. The plant performs well under standard indoor temperatures, ideally ranging between 65°F and 85°F, and it should be kept away from cold drafts or temperatures consistently below 50°F.
Pothos will flourish with higher moisture in the air. While it is not strictly necessary, providing humidity between 40% and 60% can support larger leaf development and overall plant health. Utilizing a pebble tray with water or a room humidifier can easily increase the ambient moisture, especially in dry winter months.
Watering and Feeding Needs
The most effective technique is the “soak and dry” method, which involves thoroughly saturating the soil until water drains from the bottom, followed by allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out completely before the next watering. The plant’s leaves will begin to droop slightly when thirsty, acting as a reliable visual cue that it is time to water.
Overwatering leads to consistently soggy soil and is the primary cause of root rot, a condition evidenced by yellowing, limp leaves and soft stems. Conversely, underwatering results in leaves that are dry, crispy, or curling inward, signaling dehydration. Ensuring the pot has adequate drainage holes is non-negotiable for preventing water stagnation and maintaining root health.
The Pothos requires a well-draining, airy potting mix. A standard houseplant mix should be amended with materials like perlite or orchid bark to enhance aeration and drainage. Fertilization should coincide with the plant’s active growth period during the spring and summer months. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer once a month, diluted to half the recommended strength, to provide sufficient nutrients.
Managing Growth and Propagation
Pruning is beneficial for maintaining the plant’s shape and encouraging a bushier, more compact appearance. To achieve this, simply snip the stem just above a leaf node, which is the small bump on the stem where a leaf or aerial root emerges. This action stimulates the plant to activate dormant buds lower down the vine, resulting in new growth and a fuller look.
Repotting is typically necessary every one to two years, or when the plant displays signs of being root-bound, such as roots circling the soil surface or emerging from the drainage holes. When repotting, select a container that is only one or two sizes larger in diameter than the previous one, using fresh, well-draining soil. Spring is the optimal time for this maintenance task, as the plant is entering its period of vigorous growth.
Pothos is easily propagated in water. To create a cutting, use sterile shears to take a 4- to 6-inch segment of vine with at least one or two leaves and a node. Remove any leaves that would be submerged and place the cutting in a container of water, ensuring the node is covered but the leaves remain above the water line. New roots will emerge from the node within a few weeks, and once they are two to three inches long, the new plant can be successfully potted in soil.
Regularly inspecting the foliage is important for early detection of common pests, such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests are often found on the undersides of leaves and can be treated by wiping the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by applying horticultural soap or neem oil. Consistent, proper care minimizes plant stress, which is the most effective defense against infestations.