Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a widely favored, adaptable houseplant. Its natural vining habit makes it suitable for hanging displays, creating a lush, cascading effect. Its ease of care and ability to thrive in various indoor conditions make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. The heart-shaped, often variegated leaves add a captivating aesthetic to any living space.
Benefits of Hanging Pothos
Growing Pothos as a hanging plant offers aesthetic and practical advantages. Aesthetically, its long, trailing vines add vertical interest, transforming empty spaces into vibrant, green focal points and bringing a natural element indoors.
Beyond visual appeal, hanging Pothos saves valuable floor and shelf space. Positioning the plant in a hanging planter also keeps its foliage safely out of reach of curious pets or young children, as it is toxic if ingested. Additionally, Pothos contributes to indoor air quality by removing certain toxins, such as formaldehyde and benzene.
Caring for Your Hanging Pothos
Light Considerations
Hanging Pothos thrives in bright, indirect light. An east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning sun for several hours. While Pothos can tolerate lower light, growth may slow, and variegated varieties might lose their distinct patterns, reverting to solid green. Direct, intense afternoon sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the leaves, leading to pale yellow or brown discoloration.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is crucial for hanging Pothos, as hanging baskets can dry out faster due to increased air circulation. Water your Pothos when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. It is better to underwater slightly than to overwater, as consistently soggy soil can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Humidity and Temperature
Pothos prefers temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). It appreciates higher humidity, ideally between 40% to 60%, but can adapt to average household humidity levels. Hanging plants may be more exposed to dry air or drafts, so consider grouping them with other plants or using a humidifier if the air is particularly dry.
Feeding Your Pothos
During the active growing season (spring through early fall), Pothos benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer, such as a 3-1-2 or 2-2-2 NPK ratio, diluted to half strength. Fertilize once or twice per month, following product instructions. Consistent feeding is helpful for hanging plants in smaller pots, as their soil nutrients can deplete more quickly.
Displaying Your Hanging Pothos
Displaying your hanging Pothos offers many creative possibilities. Ceiling hooks provide a classic method, allowing vines to cascade downwards. Wall brackets can be used, positioning the plant at eye level or higher, and supporting decorative baskets or macrame hangers.
Macrame hangers are popular for their aesthetic appeal, adding a bohemian touch while securely holding the plant. When selecting a pot for hanging, consider its weight, opting for lightweight plastic or resin to minimize strain on the hanging fixture. Ensure the chosen pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Keeping Your Hanging Pothos Lush
Maintaining a lush appearance for your hanging Pothos involves ongoing care. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. To prune, use sharp, sterile scissors and cut just above a node (where leaves emerge from the stem). New growth will branch out from these nodes, leading to a fuller plant.
If the plant becomes root-bound (indicated by roots growing through drainage holes or a general lack of vigor despite proper watering), repotting into a slightly larger container (1-2 inches wider) may be necessary. Repotting is best done during the spring or summer growing season to minimize stress. Training vines by gently guiding them around supports or along walls can enhance the plant’s aesthetic and encourage even growth.