The money plant, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum and commonly called Pothos or Devil’s Ivy, is a popular houseplant due to its attractive trailing vines and relatively simple care requirements. Growing this plant in water offers an elegant and low-maintenance way to enjoy its vibrant foliage, eliminating the need for soil and providing a clear view of its developing root system. This method highlights the plant’s adaptability, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Gathering Your Supplies
Before beginning the propagation process, gather the necessary materials. Select a healthy parent money plant with robust, mature stems, avoiding any that show signs of disease or damage. Choose a clear glass container, such as a jar, vase, or even a drinking glass, which allows for easy observation of root growth and water clarity. While opaque containers can also work, clear vessels offer the advantage of monitoring the plant’s progress.
Finally, prepare the water you will use. Tap water is generally suitable, but if your local water supply is heavily chlorinated, it is beneficial to let it sit in an open container for at least 24 hours to allow the chlorine to dissipate. This simple step helps create a more hospitable environment for the cuttings, as excessive chlorine can hinder root development. Distilled or filtered water can also be used, providing a clean and consistent medium for growth.
Propagating Money Plant Cuttings
Propagating a money plant in water begins with taking healthy stem cuttings from a mature plant. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make precise cuts, ensuring each cutting has at least two to four leaf nodes. Nodes are the small bumps on the stem where leaves emerge, and these are the points from which new roots will develop.
Carefully remove any leaves that would be submerged in water to prevent them from rotting, which can contaminate the water and hinder root growth. After preparing the cuttings, place them in your chosen water-filled container, ensuring that at least one or two nodes are fully submerged while the remaining leaves stay above the waterline. Roots typically begin to emerge from the submerged nodes within one to two weeks, signaling the successful start of your water-grown money plant.
Caring for Your Water-Grown Money Plant
Once your money plant cuttings have developed roots in water, ongoing care is straightforward. Place the container in a location that receives bright, indirect light, such as near a window without harsh, direct sun. Consistent bright, indirect light promotes healthier growth and maintains vibrant foliage.
Regularly change the water, ideally every one to two weeks. This replenishes oxygen and prevents stagnant conditions. A highly diluted liquid fertilizer formulated for hydroponic plants can be added every four to six weeks to provide essential nutrients.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with proper care, you may encounter common issues when growing money plants in water. Algae growth in the container is frequent, especially in clear vessels exposed to light. To address this, periodically remove the plant, clean the container thoroughly, and refill with fresh water. Moving the plant to a location with less light or using an opaque container can help reduce future algae formation.
Yellowing leaves can indicate nutrient deficiency, excessive direct light, or poor water quality. If leaves turn yellow, consider adding a diluted liquid fertilizer, moving the plant to a spot with more appropriate light, or increasing the frequency of water changes.
While less common in water propagation, root rot can occur if the water becomes stagnant or contaminated. Inspect the roots regularly; if any appear mushy or discolored, trim them away and ensure frequent water changes to maintain a healthy environment.