Pothos plants (Epipremnum aureum), often called Devil’s Ivy, are a favored houseplant due to their adaptability and attractive foliage. These vining plants are popular among both novice and experienced enthusiasts, and are recognized for their ability to purify indoor air.
Pothos Care Essentials
Light Needs
Pothos plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which encourages vibrant foliage and maintains variegation. While they can tolerate lower light, growth may slow, and variegated leaves might lose their distinct coloration. Direct, harsh sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch leaves, causing them to turn pale yellow or brown. Placing the plant a few feet away from a bright window or using a sheer curtain can help filter intense light.
Watering Practices
Water Pothos when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Pothos plants prefer a wet-dry cycle, receiving a thorough watering and then drying out before the next application. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, soft or drooping foliage, and consistently soggy soil. Conversely, underwatering can lead to crispy, brown leaves and wilting.
Soil Requirements
Pothos plants prefer a well-draining potting mix that also retains some moisture. An ideal mix includes ingredients like peat moss, perlite, and coco coir to ensure proper aeration and drainage, preventing waterlogging. A neutral to slightly acidic soil pH, between 6.1 and 6.8, is suitable for their growth. Good drainage holes in the pot are essential to allow excess water to escape.
Temperature and Humidity
Pothos plants prefer average household temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Temperatures consistently below 50°F (10°C) can lead to cold damage and hinder growth. While they adapt to typical household humidity, Pothos appreciate higher levels, ranging from 40% to 60%. Increasing humidity can be achieved by grouping plants, using a pebble tray, or a room humidifier.
Fertilizing
Pothos plants are not heavy feeders but benefit from regular fertilization during their active growing season (spring through summer). Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half or quarter strength every 2-4 weeks to support vigorous growth. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows. Over-fertilizing can lead to issues like brown, crispy leaf tips.
Popular Pothos Varieties
Pothos varieties offer a range of aesthetic choices.
Golden Pothos: Common, with green heart-shaped leaves splashed with yellow or gold variegation.
Marble Queen Pothos: Displays striking white and green marbling; more white indicates more light exposure.
Neon Pothos: Stands out with bright, lime-green leaves that lack variegation.
N’Joy Pothos: Has smaller, compact leaves with distinct green, white, and cream patches.
Manjula Pothos: Presents broad, heart-shaped leaves with unique wavy edges and variegation in shades of green, white, and cream.
Propagating Pothos
Propagating Pothos is straightforward using stem cuttings. Take a healthy 4-6 inch cutting with at least one node (where a leaf attaches). Remove any leaves from the lowest part to prevent rot in water or soil.
Cuttings can be rooted in water by placing the node below the waterline in a jar, changing the water every few days; roots typically form in 1-2 weeks. Alternatively, plant cuttings directly into moist, well-draining soil, ensuring the node is covered. Once roots are several inches long or new growth appears, transplant into a larger pot.
Addressing Common Pothos Issues
Common Pothos issues often signal a need to adjust care practices. Yellowing leaves, particularly older ones, frequently indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies. Consistently soggy soil can lead to root rot, characterized by mushy, foul-smelling roots.
Browning leaf tips or edges may suggest underwatering, low humidity, or fertilizer salt buildup. Leggy growth (long stems with sparse leaves) points to insufficient light, as the plant stretches towards a light source. Loss of variegation in patterned varieties often occurs with insufficient bright, indirect light. Address pests like spider mites or mealybugs by regular inspection and using organic insecticidal soap or neem oil.