Epipremnum aureum, commonly known as Pothos, is a highly popular and resilient tropical houseplant prized for its trailing vines and variegated, heart-shaped leaves. Its ability to adapt to various indoor conditions makes it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. The natural growth habit of Pothos makes it an ideal candidate for vegetative propagation, offering a simple way to multiply the plant or rejuvenate an older specimen. This guide provides steps for successfully growing new Pothos plants from stem cuttings.
Preparing the Parent Plant and Cuttings
Successful Pothos propagation relies on locating the plant’s growth points, known as nodes, which contain root primordia. A node is the slightly swollen area on the stem where a leaf emerges and where aerial roots naturally develop. Pruning the parent plant encourages new lateral branching, resulting in a bushier appearance.
To create a viable cutting, use clean, sharp shears or a knife to prevent crushing the stem and introducing pathogens. Each cutting should contain at least two nodes, though a single node is often sufficient. Make a clean, angled cut on the stem about one-quarter to one-half inch below a node, ensuring the node remains intact.
The angled cut increases the surface area exposed for water and nutrient absorption, which can expedite rooting. Remove the leaf attached to the lowest node to prevent it from rotting when submerged or buried. The remaining leaves will continue to photosynthesize, providing energy to fuel new root development.
Methods for Rooting Pothos Cuttings
Once the cuttings are prepared, there are two primary methods for stimulating root growth: water propagation and direct soil planting. Water propagation is often preferred by beginners because it allows for direct observation of root development. To use this method, place the bottom node of the cutting in a clear glass vessel filled with clean water.
The water should be changed every four to seven days to replenish oxygen and prevent anaerobic bacteria that can cause the cutting to rot. Roots typically emerge from the node within two to four weeks, appearing as small, white nubs. The disadvantage of water rooting is that the resulting roots are adapted to an aqueous environment and can suffer from transplant shock when moved to soil.
Alternatively, cuttings can be rooted directly in a potting medium, which bypasses the transitional phase and reduces the risk of shock. This method involves planting the node one to two inches deep in a small container filled with a light, well-aerated soil mixture. Maintaining consistent, gentle moisture is necessary, but the medium should never become waterlogged. Root development in soil is slower and less visible than in water, generally taking four to six weeks before new leaf growth signals success.
Transplanting and Long-Term Care for New Growth
After the roots have developed to a length of one to three inches, the cutting is ready to be moved into a permanent pot and soil medium. When transitioning a water-rooted cutting, gradually expose the roots to drier conditions over a few days to minimize transplant shock. Plant the rooted cutting in a container with drainage holes using a standard, well-draining houseplant mix, often amended with perlite or coco coir to improve aeration.
The newly potted plant requires specific environmental conditions to thrive. Pothos prefers bright, indirect light, as direct sun can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light slows growth significantly. Maintaining a consistently warm environment, ideally between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, supports active cell division and growth.
Humidity plays a role in the initial establishment phase; placing the new pot near a humidifier or on a pebble tray can be beneficial. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings, ensuring the roots receive adequate moisture without sitting in saturated soil. This post-propagation care ensures the new plant successfully establishes itself and begins to produce healthy vines.