The ‘White Ghost’ Pothos, Epipremnum aureum ‘White Ghost’, is a highly sought-after houseplant. Its striking variegation, featuring leaves that are almost entirely pure white, sets it apart from other Pothos varieties. This ethereal appearance makes it a captivating addition for any plant enthusiast’s home.
White Ghost Pothos Care
Light Requirements
The extensive white variegation of the ‘White Ghost’ Pothos means these leaves contain less chlorophyll. To maintain its distinct white coloration, this plant requires abundant bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east or west-facing window is often ideal, ensuring ample ambient light without direct, harsh sun exposure. Insufficient light can diminish white sections and lead to greener new growth. Conversely, too much direct sunlight can scorch the delicate white leaves, causing brown spots.
Watering Practices
Water the plant when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry. Allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings helps prevent root rot, caused by consistently soggy conditions. Signs of underwatering include wilting, crispy leaves, while overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves and a mushy stem. Always ensure excess water drains completely from the pot.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining potting mix is essential for ‘White Ghost’ Pothos. A standard houseplant potting mix amended with perlite or orchid bark provides necessary aeration and drainage. Good drainage holes in the pot are equally important to prevent water accumulation. Repotting may be necessary about once a year, or when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by water quickly running through the soil or roots emerging from drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, the ‘White Ghost’ Pothos prefers a warm and humid environment. Ideal temperatures range between 60°F and 80°F (18°C-27°C), consistently staying above 50°F (10°C). Higher humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%, are beneficial for its delicate white leaves, helping to prevent browning. To increase humidity, group the plant with other houseplants, use a pebble tray, or place a humidifier nearby. Avoid excessive misting, as it can lead to leaf spots.
Fertilization
‘White Ghost’ Pothos are not heavy feeders. During the active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer once every one to three months. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause salt buildup and harm roots. Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter when growth slows.
Propagating White Ghost Pothos
Propagating ‘White Ghost’ Pothos is an effective way to create new plants and encourage bushier growth. The most common method involves taking stem cuttings, which can be rooted in water or soil. The best time for propagation is during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
To take a cutting, select a healthy stem and cut a section 4 to 6 inches long, ensuring it has at least one node and two to four leaves. A node is the small bump on the stem where new roots will form. Remove any leaves that would be submerged if rooting in water, as these can rot.
For water propagation, place cuttings in a jar of room-temperature water, ensuring the node is fully submerged. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. Roots typically form within a few weeks; once 1 to 2 inches long, transfer to a pot with well-draining soil. When propagating in soil, plant the cutting directly into a pre-moistened, well-draining potting mix, ensuring the node is buried. Increasing humidity around soil cuttings, perhaps by covering them with a plastic bag, can encourage faster root development.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
‘White Ghost’ Pothos can exhibit specific issues related to its white variegation. Browning or crisping of white leaf sections often stems from low humidity, direct sunlight, or inconsistent watering, as the white parts are more sensitive and prone to drying out. Increasing ambient humidity and ensuring consistent watering can alleviate this.
Loss of variegation, where white areas recede and leaves become green, usually indicates insufficient light. The plant produces more chlorophyll to compensate for inadequate photosynthesis. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect light can help restore its vibrant white patterns.
Yellowing leaves often point to overwatering, especially if the soil remains soggy. If leaves are wilting and the soil is dry, the plant is likely underwatered. Address these watering practices by allowing the soil to dry between waterings and ensuring proper drainage. If older leaves yellow while new growth appears healthy, it might indicate a need for more consistent watering or a larger pot.