The Neon Pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Neon’) is a highly sought-after houseplant recognized for its striking, vibrant chartreuse foliage. This tropical vine is popular for its resilience and ease of propagation. Creating new plants from an existing mother plant is a straightforward process that works reliably in both water and soil. This article details the preparatory steps and specific instructions for successfully propagating this plant using these two effective methods.
Preparing the Cuttings for Propagation
Successful propagation begins with selecting a healthy, robust vine section from the parent plant. Avoid areas that appear damaged or overly woody. The most important feature is the node, which appears as a small bump or joint where a leaf emerges from the stem. This node is the origin point for new root growth.
Using clean, sterilized scissors or a sharp knife, cut about a quarter-inch below the chosen node. A single cutting should include at least one node and one leaf. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water or buried in soil to prevent rot. Allow the freshly cut end to dry out for several hours, permitting a protective layer of callus tissue to form over the wound.
Step-by-Step Water Propagation
Water propagation allows for the visual observation of root development. Place the prepared cuttings into a transparent vessel, such as a glass jar or vase. Fill the vessel with non-chlorinated, room-temperature water, ensuring at least one node is fully submerged. Leaves must remain above the waterline to prevent bacterial growth.
Position the vessel in a location that receives bright, indirect light, which is needed for the rooting process. Refresh the water completely once every week or two, as stagnant water quickly loses dissolved oxygen. This also helps wash away potential fungal buildup. The cutting is ready for the next step when the healthy, white or translucent roots reach a length of one to two inches.
Step-by-Step Soil Propagation
Rooting a Neon Pothos cutting directly into soil bypasses the need for a later transition period. Start with a light, highly porous potting mix, such as a blend of standard potting soil and perlite or orchid bark. This porous structure ensures proper drainage and aeration for new root development. Dipping the cut end into powdered rooting hormone is optional but can encourage faster growth.
Plant the cutting so the node is buried one to two inches beneath the soil surface, gently firming the soil around the stem. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom. To prevent the cutting from drying out before roots form, create a high-humidity environment. This is done by placing a clear plastic bag or dome over the pot to trap moisture.
Post-Propagation Care and Transplanting
The transition from water to soil is delicate because water-developed roots are physiologically different from soil roots. To minimize transplant shock, move the cutting to soil once the roots are between one and two inches long. Plant the cutting into a small pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, ensuring the fragile roots are not damaged.
The soil must be kept consistently moist for the initial two to three weeks to allow the water-adapted roots to acclimate. Gradually reduce the frequency of watering over the following weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before rewatering. For cuttings rooted directly in soil, successful rooting is confirmed if a gentle tug test after a few weeks meets resistance.
Once established, the newly rooted plant requires bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant color. Avoid fertilizing the young plant until new leaf growth is visible, which indicates a healthy, active root system. Continue to water thoroughly only when the soil has dried out slightly.