The Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular indoor plant known for its cascading vines and variegated, heart-shaped leaves. Its resilience has earned it the nickname “Devil’s Ivy.” Like all container plants, the Golden Pothos requires occasional repotting to sustain vigorous growth and overall health. This process refreshes depleted soil nutrients and provides physical space for the root system to expand. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to successfully moving your Golden Pothos to a larger home.
Determining the Need and Gathering Materials
Recognizing the signs that your Golden Pothos requires repotting is the first step in this routine maintenance. The plant typically needs a new container every one to two years, ideally at the beginning of the growing season in spring or early summer. Visible roots growing out of the drainage holes or circling tightly on the soil surface are clear indications that the plant has become root-bound.
You may also notice a significant reduction in new leaf production or find that water runs straight through the pot without soaking the soil. The plant may also appear top-heavy or have stunted growth despite consistent care. Before beginning the process, gather all necessary items to ensure a smooth transition.
Select a new pot that is only 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. The container must have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape, avoiding the “wet feet” condition that leads to root rot. Choose a high-quality, well-draining potting mix, ideally amended with materials like perlite or orchid bark to improve aeration. Complete your checklist with a small trowel or scoop, clean and sterilized shears, and gloves.
Step-by-Step Guide to Repotting
Prepare your Golden Pothos by lightly watering it one or two days before the repotting session. This ensures the roots are hydrated and the soil holds together, making the plant easier to remove from its old container and reducing transplant stress. Once prepared, gently tip the current pot onto its side and coax the plant out by carefully pulling on the base of the stems while squeezing the container sides.
If the plant is severely root-bound, you may need to slide a clean, dull knife around the inside edge to help loosen the root ball. After removing the plant, gently inspect the root ball. Use your fingers to delicately loosen and untangle the outer layer of roots, which encourages them to grow into the new soil.
Use sterilized shears to trim away any roots that are brown, mushy, or dead, as these indicate potential rot or disease. The Golden Pothos is a hardy plant and can withstand minor root disturbance without issue.
Add a fresh layer of your chosen potting mix to the bottom of the new container, ensuring the plant will sit at the same soil depth it was in before. The top of the root ball should rest approximately one to two inches below the rim of the new pot, leaving space for watering. Center the plant in its new home and begin filling the space around the root ball with the fresh potting mix.
Use the trowel to fill the gaps, lightly tamping the soil down with your fingers to remove large air pockets. Do not compact the soil too tightly, as this restricts the necessary oxygen flow to the roots. Ensure all the roots are covered and the plant is stable in its new container.
Ensuring Success After the Move
Immediately following the repotting process, water the Golden Pothos thoroughly until you see water freely draining from the bottom of the new pot. This initial deep watering helps the fresh soil settle around the roots and eliminates any remaining small air pockets. Once the water has completely drained, place the plant in its usual location, ensuring it receives bright, indirect light.
For the next week or two, refrain from moving the plant or placing it in direct, harsh sunlight, as this can increase the likelihood of transplant shock. The plant needs a period of stability to establish new root growth. You may observe some temporary wilting or a few yellowing leaves during the first week, which is a normal reaction to the root disturbance.
Wait approximately four to six weeks before applying any fertilizer to the freshly repotted Golden Pothos. The new potting mix contains an initial supply of nutrients, and adding fertilizer too soon can risk chemical burn to the recovering roots. Allowing the roots to acclimate to the fresh soil before introducing a nutrient boost supports a smoother, more successful recovery.