The Pothos plant (Epipremnum aureum) is one of the most widely propagated houseplants due to its resilience and vining habit. Propagation creates new, genetically identical plants from a portion of the parent. This method utilizes stem cuttings that readily develop new root systems, bypassing the need for seeds. Successfully starting new Pothos plants begins with careful preparation of both the tools and the source vine.
Preparing the Parent Plant and Tools
Gathering the right supplies ensures a clean break and minimizes the risk of infection. Use a sharp, sterilized cutting tool, such as small scissors or pruning shears. Sanitizing the blade with rubbing alcohol prevents the transfer of pathogens.
Correctly identifying the leaf node on the stem is essential before making a cut. The node appears as a small, swollen bump or ridge, often with an aerial root nub, located just below where a leaf grows. This area contains the dormant tissue necessary for root development; a cutting without a node will fail to grow roots. Select a healthy, vigorous stem segment that contains at least one or two leaves and corresponding nodes.
Making the Precise Cut
Once the node is located, separate the cutting from the parent vine. Position the shears about one-quarter to one-half inch directly below the identified leaf node. Cutting slightly below the node ensures the root-producing tissue remains entirely on the separated piece.
A slight diagonal cut, often around a 45-degree angle, creates a larger surface area for water and nutrient uptake. A clean, swift cut minimizes crushing of the plant’s vascular tissues, promoting faster healing for the mother plant. Gently remove any leaves that would be submerged below the water or soil line, as these will rot and contaminate the rooting environment.
Choosing and Preparing the Rooting Environment
Once the cutting is prepared, choose between water or soil as the rooting medium. Water propagation allows visual tracking of root development, which typically begins within a few weeks. The cutting’s node should be submerged in clean water, which must be refreshed every three to four days to replenish oxygen and prevent bacterial growth.
Propagating directly into a well-draining, pre-moistened potting mix is the alternative method, avoiding the need for a future transplant. Roots formed in soil are structurally different from water roots and are immediately adapted to absorbing nutrients from the solid medium. This method may take four to six weeks, but it produces a sturdier root system from the start. Regardless of the medium chosen, the cutting needs bright, indirect light and a stable, warm temperature.
Transitioning the New Plant
The final stage involves moving the newly rooted cutting into its permanent home, especially if it began in water. The ideal time to transfer a water-rooted cutting is when its new roots are approximately one to two inches long. Waiting until the roots are much longer can cause transplant shock, as the delicate water roots struggle to adapt to the drier, denser soil environment.
When potting, choose a small container, typically two to three inches in diameter, and fill it with fresh potting mix. Create a small hole in the soil and gently place the cutting in it, ensuring the fragile roots are not bent or broken. The newly potted Pothos requires consistently moist soil for the first week or two to help the water roots acclimate. After this, gradually transition to a regular watering schedule, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.