Pothos plants are popular, easy-care houseplants known for vigorous vining growth. Propagation, taking cuttings to grow new plants, is a common way to expand a collection or share plants. Rooting hormone is a product often considered during this process to encourage root development.
Understanding Pothos Rooting
Pothos plants are naturally easy to root, often succeeding without assistance. This is due to their biological structure, specifically nodes and aerial roots along their stems. Nodes are points where leaves emerge, developing new roots and shoots. Aerial roots, small nubs on the stem, also develop into functional roots in moist environments.
Despite this ease, some consider rooting hormone. It can speed up root development, encourage a more robust root system, or increase success rates, especially for faster results or less ideal conditions. For Pothos, it acts as a beneficial accelerator rather than a strict necessity.
Using Rooting Hormone for Pothos
For those who choose to use rooting hormone, several types are available: powder, liquid, and gel. Powdered hormones are accessible and easy to apply; gels adhere well, and liquids can be diluted. These products contain auxins, plant hormones that stimulate root cell development.
To prepare a Pothos cutting for hormone application, select a healthy stem with at least one node. Remove any leaves from the bottom few inches of the cutting to expose the nodes, as new roots will emerge from these points. Dip the cut end and exposed nodes into the chosen rooting hormone.
For powder, moisten the cut end, then dip it into the powder and tap off excess. For liquid, dip the cutting briefly into the solution, diluting concentrates as instructed. For gel, simply dip the cutting directly into the gel for a thick, adhering coating.
After application, plant the cutting in a suitable rooting medium, ensuring the treated nodes are covered. Maintain warmth and indirect light to support root development.
Propagating Pothos Without Rooting Hormone
Pothos plants propagate very successfully without rooting hormone, with water propagation being a popular method. To propagate in water, take a healthy stem cutting with at least one node. Remove any leaves that would be submerged to prevent rot. Place the cutting in a glass or vase filled with room-temperature water, ensuring nodes are fully submerged while leaves remain above the waterline.
Position the container in a location that receives bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight. Change the water every few days or at least once a week to replenish oxygen and prevent bacterial or algal growth. Roots typically begin to form from the nodes within 10 days to a few weeks. Once roots are approximately 1 to 3 inches long, the cuttings can be transitioned to soil.
Direct soil propagation is another method for rooting Pothos cuttings without hormone. Prepare a small pot with well-draining potting mix, making a small hole. Insert the cutting, ensuring at least one node is buried, then firm the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a spot with bright, indirect light. Roots typically establish within 4 to 6 weeks.