Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a popular houseplant recognized for its ease of care and attractive appearance. Its long, trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves make it ideal for hanging baskets or shelves. Pothos is adaptable and forgiving, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Popular Pothos Varieties
While all Pothos plants share a similar growth habit, several popular varieties offer distinct leaf colorations and patterns. The ‘Golden Pothos’ is common, displaying vibrant green leaves with yellow or gold streaks. ‘Marble Queen Pothos’ features deep green leaves heavily variegated with creamy white, while ‘Neon Pothos’ stands out with its bright, lime-green leaves. The ‘Jade Pothos’ offers a classic, solid dark green leaf. ‘N’Joy Pothos’ presents smaller, compact leaves with distinct white and green patches, often with a crisp, defined border.
Essential Pothos Care
Light
Pothos thrives in bright, indirect light, which encourages robust growth and vibrant leaf coloration. Place your plant near a north or east-facing window, or a few feet from a south or west-facing window. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth with sparse foliage, while too much direct sunlight may scorch leaves, causing faded patches or brown spots. Pothos tolerates lower light, but growth will be slower, and variegation less pronounced.
Watering
Pothos prefers its soil to dry out significantly between waterings. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger about two inches deep; if it feels dry, it is time to water. Overwatering leads to root rot, characterized by yellowing leaves and a wilting appearance. Underwatering causes leaves to droop and feel crispy, signaling a need for hydration.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining potting mix is suitable for Pothos, ensuring proper root aeration and preventing waterlogging. A standard indoor potting mix amended with perlite or orchid bark provides necessary drainage. Ensure the pot has drainage holes. Repotting is needed when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots circling the pot or emerging from drainage holes, typically every one to two years.
Temperature and Humidity
Pothos prefers average indoor temperatures from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C), suiting most homes. They tolerate typical household humidity but benefit from higher levels. In drier environments, especially in winter, occasional misting or a humidifier helps maintain leaf health and prevents crispy edges. Avoid sudden temperature drops or cold drafts.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring through early fall), Pothos benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. During dormant winter months, reduce or stop fertilizing as growth slows. Over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup, causing leaf burn or stunted growth.
Propagating Pothos
Propagating Pothos is straightforward. Select a healthy vine and locate a node (a small bump on the stem where a leaf or aerial root emerges). Using clean, sharp scissors, cut a segment of the vine with at least one node and two to three leaves, just below the node. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water to prevent rot.
Place the cutting in a clear glass or jar filled with fresh water, ensuring the node is fully submerged. Position the container in bright, indirect light. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and prevent bacterial growth. Within weeks, small white roots should emerge from the node. Once roots are several inches long (typically three to four weeks), transfer the new plant to a pot with well-draining soil.
Troubleshooting Common Pothos Issues
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering; allow soil to dry more between waterings. Brown, crispy leaf tips point to underwatering or low humidity, signaling a need for more consistent moisture or a humid environment. Leggy growth with bare stems suggests insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight for more compact growth. Slow or stunted growth might suggest a need for fertilization during the growing season or a larger pot if root-bound.
Pothos Safety Considerations
Pothos plants are toxic if ingested. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. Symptoms may include oral pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing. To ensure safety, place Pothos plants in locations inaccessible to small children and pets.