The Money Plant (Epipremnum aureum or Pothos) is a popular houseplant known for its attractive foliage and forgiving nature. Cultivating it purely in water, a form of hydroponics, is a successful, low-maintenance method. This approach allows you to enjoy the plant’s beauty without the mess of soil. With the right care, the Money Plant will thrive indefinitely in a water-based environment.
Preparing Healthy Cuttings for Water Growth
The process begins by selecting a vigorous, healthy mother vine. Using sharp, sterilized shears, take a stem cutting that is about 4 to 6 inches long. Make the cut directly below a node, which is the slightly swollen joint on the stem where a leaf and a new root will emerge. Cuttings should contain at least two to three nodes to maximize the chances of successful rooting.
Remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline in your container. Submerged leaves will quickly decay, fouling the water and creating an environment where harmful bacteria and fungi can proliferate. Removing the lower foliage exposes the nodes to the water, allowing them to focus their energy on developing a strong root system.
Establishing the Ideal Water Environment
The initial setup requires attention to both the container and water quality. A clear glass vase, jar, or bottle is the preferred container, as it allows easy monitoring of root growth and water clarity. While clear containers are visually appealing, an opaque vessel will naturally slow down algae growth by blocking light. The container should be wide enough to accommodate the roots without crowding but narrow enough to hold the cutting upright.
Fill the container with fresh, clean water, ensuring at least one node is fully submerged. Standard tap water is acceptable, but if it is heavily chlorinated, let it sit uncovered for 12 to 24 hours to allow the chlorine to dissipate. Filtered or distilled water can also be used, though tap water often contains beneficial trace minerals. Fine white roots will typically begin to emerge within one to two weeks once the node is submerged.
Essential Routine Care and Maintenance
Long-term survival and healthy growth depend on consistent maintenance practices. Place the plant in an area that receives bright, indirect light, such as near an east or west-facing window. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch the leaves and promote excessive algae growth within the container.
Regular water changes are the most important aspect of ongoing care, as roots require oxygen for respiration. Stagnant water loses dissolved oxygen, so the water should be completely replaced at least once every seven to ten days. This routine also flushes out waste products exuded by the roots, preventing accumulation.
Since water alone lacks the necessary macro and micronutrients for sustained growth, you must supplement it with fertilizer. Use a balanced, water-soluble liquid houseplant fertilizer designed for hydroponic or aquatic use. Add a highly diluted solution, often a quarter-strength of the recommended dosage, to the fresh water every four to six weeks during the active growing seasons of spring and summer.
Diagnosing Common Water-Related Problems
Even with proper care, water-grown plants may experience specific issues. If roots turn brown, mushy, and soft, it indicates root rot, usually caused by insufficient oxygen from infrequent water changes. To treat this, remove the plant, trim away all affected roots with clean scissors, and immediately replace the water with a fresh, oxygenated supply.
Algae growth, appearing as a green or brown film on the container walls and roots, is common, especially in clear glass containers exposed to light. While a small amount is harmless, excessive algae can compete with the plant for nutrients. To prevent this, ensure the container is not in direct sunlight, and routinely scrub the inside of the vessel during weekly water changes.
Leaf yellowing often signals a nutrient deficiency, particularly if the plant has been in plain water without fertilizer. If the yellowing is widespread across both old and new leaves, it indicates the plant needs a dose of balanced liquid fertilizer. Consistent fertilization and regular water changes will resolve most cases of leaf discoloration.