The Pothos plant, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum, is a popular houseplant recognized for its heart-shaped foliage and trailing vines. Often called Devil’s Ivy, Golden Pothos, or Hunter’s Robe, this plant is a favorite among plant enthusiasts due to its adaptability and ease of care.
Pothos Plant Care
Pothos plants thrive with specific environmental conditions that support their growth and vibrant appearance.
Light
Pothos plants prefer bright, indirect light to maintain variegation and promote robust growth. While they tolerate lower light levels, growth may slow, and variegated varieties might lose their distinct patterns, reverting to a more solid green. Direct, intense afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, leading to browning or bleached spots. Placing a Pothos a few feet from a bright window or using a sheer curtain can help diffuse strong light. Artificial lighting, such as fluorescent tubes or grow lights, also provides suitable illumination.
Watering
Proper watering involves allowing the top soil to dry out between waterings. Typically, Pothos plants need water every one to two weeks, though this can vary based on light conditions and temperature. Signs of thirst include leaves curling inward or the potting mix feeling dry to the touch. Conversely, yellowing leaves or a wet potting mix indicate overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
Soil Requirements
Pothos plants thrive in a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A standard houseplant potting mix is generally suitable. Adding amendments like perlite or lava rocks can enhance aeration and drainage, which helps prevent waterlogging and root issues. A slightly acidic soil pH is preferred, though Pothos can tolerate a broader range.
Temperature and Humidity
Pothos plants prefer temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-30°C). Avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C) to prevent cold damage. While Pothos tolerates average household humidity, it appreciates higher levels. Increasing humidity can be achieved by misting the leaves, grouping plants together, or using a pebble tray with water.
Fertilizing
During the growing season, which spans spring and summer, Pothos benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer can be applied bi-weekly or monthly. Fertilization supports vigorous growth. During fall and winter, when the plant’s growth naturally slows, reduce or stop fertilizing. However, if the plant receives consistent artificial light year-round, fertilization can continue.
Propagating Pothos
Propagating Pothos is a straightforward process, commonly done using stem cuttings.
To begin, use a clean, sharp cutting tool to take a stem cutting that is approximately 2-3 inches long. Ensure each cutting has at least one node, which is the small bump on the stem where a leaf is attached or where roots can emerge. Remove any leaves that would be submerged if placed in water, as this can lead to rot.
Place the cutting in a jar of water or directly into moist potting soil. If using water, change the water weekly to keep it fresh. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks. Once the roots are several inches long, the cutting is ready to be transplanted into a pot with well-draining soil. For soil propagation, keep the soil consistently moist until roots establish.
Common Pothos Problems
Despite their hardiness, Pothos plants can exhibit signs of distress, often related to their environment or care routine.
Yellowing leaves are a common concern and can stem from several factors, including overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiencies. Overwatering often causes leaves to yellow and stems to turn black, sometimes accompanied by a mushy feel at the base. Conversely, underwatering can also lead to yellowing, often with the leaves appearing wilted or crispy. Insufficient light can also contribute to yellow foliage.
Browning leaf tips or edges typically point to issues like low humidity, infrequent watering, or a buildup of minerals in the soil. Increasing ambient humidity or ensuring consistent soil moisture can alleviate this. Leggy growth, characterized by long stems with sparse leaves, usually indicates the plant is not receiving enough light. Moving the plant to a brighter location or pruning can encourage fuller growth.
Pothos plants are generally resistant to pests, but they can occasionally be affected by common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites may present as tiny specks and fine webbing on leaves, while mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses. Regular inspection of the foliage and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage these infestations.
Popular Pothos Varieties
The Epipremnum aureum species encompasses several popular varieties, each with distinct foliage patterns.
‘Golden Pothos’ is known for its heart-shaped, green leaves variegated with streaks and flecks of yellow or gold. This classic variety is known for its robust growth and adaptability. ‘Marble Queen Pothos’ features green leaves heavily marbled with creamy white, creating a striking contrast. The extensive white variegation in ‘Marble Queen’ can make it slightly less tolerant of low light compared to the ‘Golden’ variety, as it requires more light to maintain its coloration.
‘Neon Pothos’ stands out with its bright, almost fluorescent chartreuse or golden-yellow leaves that typically lack variegation. The intensity of its color is often more pronounced in brighter indirect light. ‘N’Joy Pothos’ is characterized by smaller, heart-shaped leaves with distinct patches of green and white, offering a more compact and refined appearance. Varieties like ‘Pearls and Jade’ showcase unique green, white, and silver patterns.