Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) are popular, adaptable houseplants known for their trailing vines and attractive foliage. Jade and Pearl Pothos are favored choices for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. They offer distinct visual appeals and share the general resilience of the Pothos genus.
Understanding Jade and Pearl Pothos
Jade Pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Jade’) is characterized by its solid, deep emerald green, heart-shaped leaves. Its waxy, glossy leaves are uniformly deep emerald green without variegation. A natural mutation of the original golden pothos, it has robust stems and increased drought tolerance.
Pearl Pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Pearls and Jade’) displays striking green leaves with white and cream variegation. This variegation appears as irregular patches, blotches, and streaks, with each leaf varying slightly. Its leaves are generally smaller and can have a slightly ruffled texture. Developed from ‘Marble Queen’ Pothos, it has enhanced variegation and a more controlled growth habit.
Essential Care for Jade and Pearl Pothos
Jade and Pearl Pothos share similar care requirements, making them straightforward to maintain. Meeting their needs for light, water, soil, temperature, humidity, and fertilization promotes healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Light Requirements
Both Jade and Pearl Pothos thrive in bright, indirect light conditions. Ideal placement is near a north or east-facing window, or a few feet back from a south or west-facing window. While Jade Pothos can tolerate lower light, Pearl Pothos requires more consistent bright indirect light to maintain its distinct patterns. Direct sunlight should be avoided for both varieties, as it can scorch their leaves, causing brown patches.
Watering Practices
Water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feels dry. Overwatering causes root rot, so ensure adequate drainage. Overwatering signs include yellowing leaves, soft stems, and persistently wet soil. Underwatering causes wilting, drooping, or crispy brown leaves. Checking soil moisture diagnoses these issues.
Soil Mix
A well-draining, airy potting mix is suitable for both Jade and Pearl Pothos. This promotes aeration and prevents waterlogging, which harms roots. Chunky elements like orchid bark or pumice enhance drainage and airflow.
Temperature and Humidity
Pothos prefer temperatures between 65°F to 85°F (18-29°C). Protect them from cold drafts or temperatures below 55°F (13°C), as they are sensitive to cold. While Pothos adapt to typical household humidity, they appreciate moderate to high humidity. Increase humidity by misting, using a pebble tray, or placing a humidifier nearby.
Fertilizing
Pothos benefit from regular fertilization during their active growing season (spring and summer). Apply a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, monthly. An NPK ratio around 3-1-2 or a balanced 10-10-10 is recommended. Reduce or pause fertilizer application during fall and winter when growth slows.
Propagation and General Maintenance
Propagating Pothos is straightforward, allowing you to create new plants or make existing ones fuller. Stem cuttings are the most common method, and they can be rooted in either water or soil. For water propagation, take a stem cutting with 3-5 leaves and at least one node. Remove bottom leaves to expose the nodes, then place the cutting in water, ensuring nodes are submerged and leaves are above the waterline. Change the water weekly; roots typically form within a few weeks.
For soil propagation, plant stem cuttings directly into a well-draining potting mix, ensuring the nodes are buried. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy to encourage root development. Once roots are several inches long, new plants can be potted individually or added back to the mother plant for a bushier appearance. Pruning is an important maintenance task; cutting vines just above a node encourages new growth and maintains shape and fullness. Light maintenance pruning can be done any time, but heavier trimming is best during the growing season.
Common Problems and Solutions
Pothos are resilient, but can show distress from environmental factors or pests. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or insufficient light. If leaves are soft or mushy, overwatering is likely, potentially leading to root rot. Crispy, brown leaves or drooping foliage signal underwatering. Checking soil moisture diagnoses these issues.
Common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and thrips can affect Pothos. Spider mites cause pale spots and fine webbing. Mealybugs appear as tiny white tufts, leading to yellowing or stunted growth. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that cause curling leaves and leave a sticky residue. Regular inspection, especially of leaf undersides, helps early detection and treatment. Addressing problems involves adjusting care, ensuring good air circulation, and using appropriate pest control methods.