The Jade Pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Jade’) is a popular houseplant known for its glossy green, heart-shaped leaves. A variant of the classic Pothos, it is robust. This vining plant is adaptable and hardy, making it suitable for various indoor environments. Its trailing vines are ideal for hanging baskets or shelves.
Jade Pothos Care
Light Needs
Jade Pothos thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placement near a north-facing window or in a room with a south-facing window promotes lush foliage. It tolerates lower light, though growth may slow. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves.
Watering Practices
Overwatering is detrimental, as Jade Pothos does not tolerate standing water. Allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry completely between waterings. Check soil moisture with a finger. If leaves begin to droop, but are not shriveled, it often indicates the plant needs water and will perk up after being watered.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining potting mix prevents waterlogging and root rot. The ideal soil should be airy and allow for good air circulation around the roots. Amendments like perlite, peat moss, or coco coir improve drainage and aeration. Jade Pothos prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Temperature and Humidity
Jade Pothos thrives in warm household temperatures, ideally 65-80°F. Temperatures below 50°F are problematic; keep plants away from cold drafts and heating vents. They appreciate moderate to high humidity, though they tolerate standard home levels. Increase humidity with a pebble tray, humidifier, or by grouping plants.
Fertilizing Schedule
Jade Pothos are not heavy feeders and do not require frequent fertilization. During spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer every two to four weeks to encourage growth. Dilute fertilizer to half-strength to prevent over-fertilization. Reduce or stop fertilizing during dormant fall and winter months.
Propagating Jade Pothos
Propagate Jade Pothos through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and use a sharp knife or shears. Cut about an inch below a node, which is where a leaf attaches to the stem, ensuring the cutting has at least one or two nodes. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water or buried in soil to prevent rotting.
Place cuttings in water, ensuring nodes are submerged but leaves remain above the water line. Roots sprout within a few weeks. Alternatively, cuttings can be placed directly into a moist, well-draining potting mix. Once roots develop, transplant the new plant into a pot with soil.
Common Jade Pothos Problems
Yellowing leaves indicate several problems. Overwatering is a primary cause, leading to soggy soil and potential root rot. Yellowing can also result from underwatering, where leaves may wilt and curl. Too much direct sunlight or insufficient light can also cause leaves to yellow.
Browning leaf tips suggest underwatering or low humidity. Stunted growth or leggy, stringy vines indicate a lack of adequate light or a need for pruning. Pests like spider mites and mealybugs may appear as fine webbing or cotton-like clusters on leaves. Address pests by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Repotting Jade Pothos
Repot Jade Pothos when root-bound, usually every one to two years. Signs include roots growing from drainage holes or a significant slowing of growth. The best time for repotting is during spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Choose a new pot only one or two sizes larger than the current one, ensuring good drainage. A pot that is too large can hold excess moisture, leading to issues. Gently remove the plant, keeping the root ball intact, and place it into the new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. After repotting, water the plant thoroughly.