The term “Basil Pothos” is not a formally recognized Pothos variety. This article clarifies the misconception and provides comprehensive care instructions for Pothos plants.
What is Basil Pothos?
The term “Basil Pothos” is not a distinct botanical variety. It likely describes Pothos plants with smaller, more rounded leaves that visually resemble basil foliage, perhaps from a specific growth habit or a young specimen. Common varieties informally described this way include ‘Global Green’ Pothos, known for its compact leaf shape, or young ‘Marble Queen’ or ‘Golden Pothos’ with developing leaves. All Pothos varieties share consistent care requirements.
Caring for Your Pothos
Light Requirements
Pothos plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near an east or west-facing window to receive ample ambient light without direct sun exposure. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves, causing brown spots or a bleached appearance. Insufficient light leads to leggy plants with sparse foliage, and variegated varieties may lose their distinct patterns. Moving the plant closer to a light source or supplementing with a grow light helps maintain compact growth and vibrant leaf coloration.
Watering Needs
Allow the top two to three inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger into the potting mix. Overwatering is a common issue, leading to root rot, mushy stems, and yellowing leaves. Underwatering can cause wilting and crispy leaf edges. When watering, saturate the soil thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s drainage holes.
Soil and Potting
Pothos plants prefer a well-draining, aerated potting mix. A standard indoor potting mix amended with perlite or orchid bark works well to ensure proper drainage and prevent waterlogging. Repotting is needed every one to two years, or when the plant shows signs of being root-bound, such as roots circling the bottom of the pot or significantly slowed growth. Always choose a pot with drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
Pothos plants tolerate average indoor temperatures from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). They are sensitive to sudden temperature drops and cold drafts. Maintaining a consistent temperature promotes steady growth. While Pothos can tolerate typical household humidity, they thrive in higher humidity, especially during drier months. Grouping plants or using a pebble tray can increase localized humidity.
Feeding Your Pothos
During the active growing season (spring through early fall), Pothos plants benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks for healthy foliage development. During dormant winter months, reduce or cease fertilization. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup in the soil, causing leaf burn.
Troubleshooting Pothos Problems
Yellowing leaves on a Pothos indicate overwatering, which can lead to root rot, or a nutrient deficiency. Adjusting the watering schedule to allow the soil to dry more thoroughly can resolve this. Brown tips or edges on leaves point to low humidity or inconsistent watering, suggesting underwatering or dry air.
Leggy stems with sparse leaves signal insufficient light, as the plant stretches for brighter conditions. Moving the plant to a brighter location encourages bushier growth. Dull or faded leaves, especially in variegated varieties, also suggest inadequate light, causing loss of vibrant coloration.
Propagating and Pruning Pothos
Propagating Pothos is a simple way to create new plants. Use stem cuttings, taking a section with at least one node and a few leaves. Cuttings can be rooted in water, with roots emerging within weeks, or directly in a well-draining potting mix.
Pruning Pothos plants offers several benefits, including maintaining shape and size, especially for trailing varieties. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth by stimulating new shoots from nodes below the cut. Pruning also allows for the removal of leggy or damaged stems, improving the plant’s overall health and appearance.