Pothos plants are popular for their adaptability and cascading foliage. Their resilient nature and ease of care often lead owners to consider expanding their collection or refreshing existing plants. “Splitting” a pothos, through either division or cuttings, is a common practice to achieve these goals.
Reasons to Split Your Pothos
There are several motivations for splitting a pothos plant. One reason is propagation, allowing you to create new plants to expand your collection or share. Another purpose is to rejuvenate an overgrown or “leggy” plant, transforming it into a bushier, more compact form. Pothos vines can become long with sparse leaves, and splitting helps restore a fuller appearance. Additionally, dividing a root-bound plant can alleviate stress and promote healthier growth by providing more space for the root system.
How to Split a Pothos Plant
Splitting a pothos can be achieved through two main methods: division of the root ball or taking stem cuttings. Each method is suitable for different scenarios.
Splitting by Division
Dividing a pothos involves separating the plant at its root system, typically performed when the plant is root-bound. Begin by carefully removing the plant from its container, gently loosening the soil around the root ball. Look for natural separations within the root mass where individual sections with their own roots and stems can be gently pulled apart. If roots are tightly intertwined, a clean, sharp knife or sterilized pruning shears can be used to carefully cut through them, ensuring each section has a healthy portion of roots and foliage. Once separated, repot each new section into its own container with fresh, well-draining potting soil, ensuring the plant is at the same soil level as it was previously.
Splitting by Cuttings
Propagating pothos by cuttings is a straightforward method. Select healthy, mature stems and use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to take cuttings that are 4-6 inches long, ensuring each cutting has at least one node. A node is a small bump on the stem where leaves and roots emerge. Remove any leaves that would be submerged if rooting in water, as these can rot. Cuttings can be placed in a jar of room-temperature water, ensuring the node is submerged while leaves remain above the waterline. Alternatively, cuttings can be planted directly into moist, well-draining potting mix, with the node buried in the soil. Rooting hormone can be applied to the cut end to encourage faster root development. Roots typically begin to form in water within 7-14 days, while soil rooting may take 4-6 weeks for established roots.
Caring for Your Newly Split Pothos
After splitting your pothos, appropriate care ensures the success of new plants. Place newly divided plants or rooted cuttings in an area that receives bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch delicate new foliage, while insufficient light may hinder growth. Maintain consistent moisture in the soil, allowing the top inch or two to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Pothos prefer normal room humidity, but higher humidity levels (40-60%) can benefit newly propagated plants by reducing stress. Avoid fertilizing immediately after splitting or repotting, as the plants are recovering from the disturbance. Once plants show signs of new growth, typically a few weeks after splitting, a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer can be applied monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) at a diluted strength.
Common Challenges When Splitting Pothos
Newly split pothos plants can experience common challenges. Wilting leaves are often an initial sign of transplant shock. Ensuring consistent, but not excessive, moisture can help alleviate this. Yellowing leaves can signal either overwatering, leading to root rot, or underwatering. Check soil moisture carefully to determine the cause and adjust your watering routine. If rooting cuttings, slow or absent root development can occur due to insufficient warmth or light. Ensure cuttings are in a bright, warm location and change water regularly if rooting in water to provide oxygen.