Epipremnum aureum, commonly known as Pothos, is a popular and adaptable houseplant. While often displayed in hanging baskets where its vines cascade downward, the plant is naturally an epiphytic climber in its native tropical environment. Transitioning Pothos from a trailing habit to a vertical climbing structure encourages a physiological change. This results in significantly larger, more mature leaves, a phenomenon often described as the “shingle” effect.
The Science of Pothos Climbing
The Pothos climbs using specialized aerial roots that emerge from the stem nodes. These roots serve two primary functions: anchorage and nutrient absorption from the air or substrate they attach to. When a vine grows upward onto a textured, vertical surface, the plant responds by activating these roots.
This growth response to touch, known as positive thigmotropism, allows the plant to firmly adhere to the support. Providing vertical support triggers a maturation phase in the plant’s growth cycle. As the plant climbs higher, the leaves increase in size, often growing several times larger than those on a trailing vine. This shift enables the plant to capture more light higher up in the forest canopy.
Selecting the Ideal Climbing Structure
Choosing the correct support structure is important for successfully encouraging the Pothos to climb and mature. The best option mimics the rough, moisture-retaining bark of a tree trunk, the plant’s natural support. Sphagnum moss poles are considered the most effective tool for this purpose.
Moss poles function well because they can be kept consistently moist, which encourages the aerial roots to penetrate and grow directly into the pole. Once the roots are anchored within the moss, the plant gains stability and begins producing larger foliage. This interaction between the roots and the moist substrate facilitates robust vertical growth.
Alternative supports, such as simple wooden stakes, plastic trellises, or bamboo poles, can be used for smaller or younger plants. These options provide physical support but do not offer the necessary moisture retention to encourage true root adherence. With non-porous supports, the vine must be secured manually at regular intervals, as aerial roots will only anchor superficially. For the largest possible leaves and maturity, a porous, moisture-retaining surface is the superior choice.
Step-by-Step Guide to Training the Pothos
Introducing a climbing support requires careful attention to the root system and vine placement. Gently insert the base of the selected structure, preferably a moss pole, deep into the pot near the center of the root ball. Avoid forcing the pole, which could damage major structural roots; instead, wiggle it carefully into the soil.
Once the support is secure, guide the longest, healthiest vines upward against the pole’s surface. Identify the nodes along the stem, as these are the points where dormant aerial roots are located. Position these nodes directly against the moist, textured surface of the pole to initiate anchoring.
Secure the vines using soft materials that will not cut into the stems, such as soft plant ties, Velcro strips, or flexible garden clips. Avoid harsh twine or wire, which can cause stem damage as the plant grows. Initially, secure the stem loosely to hold it in place, allowing aerial roots to emerge and attach naturally.
Continue to secure the vines incrementally as the plant grows, ensuring the newest growth is always directed upward. This consistent guidance reinforces the plant’s climbing habit. The initial setup is complete when all available stems are directed vertically and secured against the support surface.
Maintenance for Climbing Pothos
Long-term success with a climbing Pothos depends on maintaining the moisture level of the support structure. If a moss pole is used, it must be regularly hydrated by misting or pouring water directly down the top until the moisture reaches the bottom. Allowing the pole to dry out causes aerial roots to retreat and can lead to leaf shrinkage, negating the effort to promote maturity.
As the plant grows taller, it will eventually reach the top of the initial support structure, requiring an extension. A new, identical pole can be attached to the top of the existing one, ensuring the connection is stable enough to support the increasing weight of the foliage. This allows for continuous upward growth and leaf expansion.
To encourage a fuller appearance at the base, regularly prune the trailing vines. Trimming back the longest, lowest stems redirects the plant’s energy toward vertical growth and encourages new lateral branching near the soil line. This helps maintain a lush, balanced presentation while the main vines continue their ascent.