Pothos Plant Care

Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy or Epipremum aureum is a popular and versatile houseplant loved by both experienced and novice plant enthusiasts.

Its easy care and low-maintenance nature make it a perfect choice for adding a touch of nature to any indoor space.

Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting your journey, this comprehensive guide will provide you with essential tips and tricks for successful pothos plant care.

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Pothos Plant Care

Pothos Light Requirements

Potho’s claim to fame is that it will tolerate low-light conditions.

This has made it popular as an indoor plant in homes, offices, malls, and other commercial buildings.

As with most houseplants, it will grow best in higher levels of indirect light.

In extremely low light levels, any variegation colors may fade and the leaves will revert to green.

This can be reversed by moving the plant to an area with more light.

In addition, the growth can appear “scraggly” with elongated spaces between the leaves.

This also can be reversed by trimming the plant and moving it to a location with more light.

Avoid placing pothos in direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.

 

Watering Pothos

The key pothos plant care is to avoid overwatering, especially if they are in low light.

Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering.

They are very forgiving plants and can give you a little grace if you forget about them.

Overwatering is its nemesis so it’s content to be a bit on the dry side.

 

Fertilizing Pothos

Pothos are not heavy feeders but could benefit from the application of a water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the summer months.

It isn’t necessary to fertilize during the remainder of the year

Propagating Pothos

Pothos is extremely easy to propagate from stem cuttings.

Simply cut a 4-6 inch piece of stem that has at least 2-3 leaves and at least one bumpy “node.”

Place the stem in a glass of water (don’t submerge any leaves) and roots will emerge from the bumpy nodes.

Change the water weekly and once there is about an inch of new roots, plant in soil.

If the cutting remains in water too long, the roots will lose their ability to adapt to soil.

Cuttings can also be rooted directly into a soilless potting mix.

 

Decorating with Pothos

Pothos trailing and vining habits make them ideal for hanging baskets and macramé hangers.

Display on shelves, bookcases, and filing cabinets so the vines can cascade.

They are often sold growing up “totem” poles for vertical interest.

This is a great option for small spaces.

 

General Maintenance Tips for Pothos

• Trim vines to keep the size and shape contained. This will also encourage new growth that is more compact.
• As with any houseplant, remove discolored leaves.
• Occasionally place plants in a shower under room temperature water to remove dust and debris. This keeps the leaf pores clean and restores the glossy appearance.
• All pothos are poisonous to pets and humans. Avoid keeping them in homes in which they could be ingested.
• Although pothos isn’t prone to pests, scout regularly for whitefly and mealybug.

 

Pothos Varieties

Golden pothos is the most recognizable variety, but professional growers are offering new colors with all of the easy care of the original..

These new varieties are providing a fresh, new look to this classic indoor plant.

 

Golden Pothos (Epipremum aureum)

• Fast-growing
• Distinctive golden-yellow variegation
• Leaves may revert to less variegation in low-light conditions

 

Cebu Blue Pothos (Epipremum pinnatum ‘Cebu Blue’)

• Blue-green foliage with a glossy sheen
• Over time, the leaves can mature and develop scalloped edges similar to Monstera
• A unique, newer variety

 

Neon Pothos (Epipremnum ‘Neon’)

• New growth is a bright green that matures into a lime-green
• In low-light settings, the leaves may be less vibrant
• A unique plant color for home or office

 

Marble Queen Pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Marble Queen’)

• Another very popular variety
• Has cream variegation
• Grows a bit slower than Golden Pothos

 

 

 

Pearls and Jade Pothos (Epipremnum ‘Pearls and Jade’)

• Each leaf is uniquely variegated with irregular streaks and splashes of cream, silver, and white
• The leaves are smaller and grow more slowly than the other varieties

 

Satin or Silver Pothos (Scindapsus pictus)

• This is not an actual pothos but is often called a pothos and has similar care instructions so I am including it!
• Dark green leaves speckled with silvery gray give it a distinct look
• Satin textured leaves
• Grows more slowly and more compact than other varieties of Epipremnum

 

 

Pothos is one of those no-brainer, no-fail houseplants that you can put almost anywhere and know that it will be a success.

It is a go-to plant for interior designers and gardeners.

With its ability to adapt to low light and withstand some neglect, it’s hard to find a more reliable indoor plant.

Fortunately, plant breeders are continuing to bring new varieties to market keeping this classic houseplant fresh and new.