Pothos, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum, is a favored houseplant, appreciated for its appealing foliage and adaptable nature. Often referred to as Devil’s Ivy, this plant has straightforward care requirements. Its vining habit allows it to be displayed in various settings, from hanging baskets to trailing gracefully from shelves.
Popular Pothos Varieties
Numerous Pothos varieties offer diverse leaf patterns and colors. The Golden Pothos, a classic and widely recognized type, features heart-shaped green leaves speckled with irregular golden or yellow variegation. The Marble Queen Pothos is distinguished by its green leaves heavily marbled with creamy white patterns. This variety’s variegation can become more pronounced with increased light.
The Neon Pothos displays striking bright chartreuse or lime-green leaves, offering a vibrant, consistent color without variegation. For smaller, more compact foliage, the N’Joy Pothos presents green leaves with crisp, irregular white margins. These varieties maintain the hardiness of the Pothos plant while providing unique visual appeal.
Pothos Plant Care
Light Needs
Pothos plants thrive in bright, indirect light, such as near an east or west-facing window. While they tolerate lower light, growth may slow, and variegated varieties might lose some of their distinctive patterns, reverting to a more solid green. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, causing them to appear pale or bleached. Adjusting the plant’s position can prevent damage.
Watering Practices
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. The plant will often show slight wilting or drooping when it needs water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, where roots become mushy and black, while underwatering results in dry, crispy leaves.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining potting mix is essential for Pothos to prevent waterlogging. Standard houseplant potting mix or an aroid mix works well. Incorporating materials like perlite or bark can enhance aeration and drainage, helping prevent the soil from remaining saturated.
Temperature and Humidity
Pothos plants prefer a consistent temperature range of 65°F to 85°F (18°C-30°C). They are sensitive to temperatures below 50°F and should be protected from cold drafts. While Pothos adapt to average household humidity, they benefit from higher levels, especially between 40% and 60%. Placing the plant in a humid room or grouping it with other plants can create a more favorable microclimate.
Fertilizing Your Pothos
During the active growing season (spring and summer), Pothos plants benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength, can be applied once a month. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil and cause leaf burn or discoloration. Fertilization should be reduced or stopped during the fall and winter months when plant growth slows.
Propagating Pothos
Propagating Pothos is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to take a cutting approximately 4 to 6 inches long. Each cutting should include at least one or two leaves and a node, where new roots will emerge. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water to prevent rot.
Cuttings can be rooted in water by placing the cut ends into a jar or vase filled with room-temperature water, ensuring the nodes are submerged. Place the container in a warm spot with bright, indirect light, and change the water every few days. Roots form within one to two weeks. Once roots are several inches long, transplant the cuttings into a pot with well-draining soil. Cuttings can also be rooted directly in moist soil by inserting the node into the potting mix.
Common Pothos Problems
Pothos plants can experience a few common issues. Yellowing leaves often signal overwatering, which can lead to root rot if the soil remains too wet. Yellowing can also indicate underwatering or insufficient light, so check soil moisture and light conditions. Removing yellowed leaves is often recommended.
Brown leaf tips or edges point to low humidity or underwatering. Too much direct sunlight can also cause brown, scorched spots on the leaves. Adjusting watering frequency and providing adequate humidity can help resolve these symptoms.
Leggy growth, characterized by long, sparse stems with few leaves, results from insufficient light. The plant stretches in search of brighter conditions, leading to elongated growth. Providing more bright, indirect light and regular pruning encourages bushier, fuller growth by stimulating new leaf development closer to the plant’s base.