About Pothos
Pothos Introduction
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular and versatile houseplant known for its attractive, heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines. Native to the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific, this tropical plant has become a favorite among indoor gardeners worldwide due to its adaptability and low-maintenance nature.
Pothos is characterized by its glossy, variegated leaves that can range in color from deep green to golden yellow, depending on the variety. The plant’s vines can grow quite long, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets, climbing trellises, or cascading down shelves. In its natural habitat, Pothos can grow to impressive sizes, with leaves reaching up to 3 feet in length.
One of the most appealing aspects of Pothos is its air-purifying qualities. NASA’s Clean Air Study found that Pothos is effective at removing indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, xylene, and benzene. This, combined with its ease of care and attractive appearance, has made Pothos a staple in homes, offices, and public spaces around the world.
Pothos Care & Growing Guide
Caring for Pothos is relatively straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. This hardy plant can thrive in a variety of indoor conditions, adapting well to different light levels and watering schedules.
When it comes to lighting, Pothos is quite flexible. It can tolerate low light conditions, although it grows best in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. If you notice the variegation on the leaves fading, it’s a sign that the plant needs more light.
Watering is another area where Pothos is forgiving. It’s best to allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is more harmful than underwatering for this plant, so err on the side of caution. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering, while drooping leaves suggest the plant needs more water. During the growing season (spring and summer), you may need to water more frequently than in the dormant winter months.
Soil
Pothos prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.1 to 6.5. A good potting mix for Pothos should contain peat moss, perlite, and pine bark. This combination provides adequate drainage while retaining enough moisture for the plant’s roots.
Poor drainage can lead to root rot, a common problem for Pothos. If the soil becomes compacted, it can impede water flow and oxygen availability to the roots. To improve drainage, add perlite or coarse sand to the potting mix.
While Pothos is not particularly sensitive to soil pH, extreme acidity or alkalinity can affect nutrient uptake. If you suspect pH issues, you can adjust the soil using lime to increase pH or sulfur to decrease it.
Salt build-up from fertilizers can also be problematic. Flush the soil thoroughly with water every few months to prevent this. If you notice brown leaf tips, it could be a sign of salt accumulation.
Nutrient deficiencies are rare in Pothos but can occur in poor-quality soil. Signs include yellowing leaves (nitrogen deficiency) or dark green leaves with purple undersides (phosphorus deficiency). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to address these issues.
Root boundness can occur if the plant outgrows its pot. Signs include roots growing out of drainage holes or the plant drying out quickly after watering. Repot into a larger container when this occurs.
Fertilizer
Pothos benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks.
Signs of over-fertilization include brown leaf tips, stunted growth, and salt buildup on the soil surface. If this occurs, flush the soil thoroughly with water and reduce fertilizer application.
Under-fertilization symptoms include slow growth, small leaves, and pale foliage. If you notice these signs, increase the frequency of fertilization slightly.
Organic alternatives include compost tea, worm castings, or fish emulsion. These can be applied monthly during the growing season.
Pothos is not particularly prone to specific nutrient deficiencies, but a lack of nitrogen can cause yellowing leaves, while a lack of magnesium can cause interveinal chlorosis (yellowing between leaf veins).
Reduce or stop fertilization in fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.
Watering
Pothos prefers to dry out slightly between waterings. Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. The frequency will depend on light, temperature, and humidity levels.
Pothos is not particularly picky about water quality and can generally tolerate tap water. However, if your tap water is hard or heavily chlorinated, consider using filtered or distilled water.
Signs of underwatering include drooping leaves and dry, crispy edges. Overwatering symptoms include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and a foul odor from the soil.
Watering needs change seasonally. During the growing season (spring and summer), Pothos may need more frequent watering. In winter, when growth slows, reduce watering frequency.
Young Pothos plants may require more frequent watering than mature plants. Always check the soil moisture before watering rather than sticking to a strict schedule.
Lighting
Pothos thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low to moderate light conditions. Ideal placement would be near a north or east-facing window where it receives filtered sunlight. While Pothos can survive in low light, its growth may slow and variegation may fade.
Signs of insufficient light include small leaves, long spaces between leaves on the vine (leggy growth), and loss of variegation. If you notice these symptoms, gradually move the plant to a brighter location.
Excessive light can cause leaf burn, evident as brown or yellow patches on the leaves. If this occurs, move the plant further from the light source or use a sheer curtain to filter the light.
If natural light is limited, Pothos can thrive under artificial grow lights. LED or fluorescent lights can be used to supplement or replace natural light, especially in offices or rooms with few windows.
Temperature
Pothos thrives in temperatures between 60Β°F to 80Β°F (15Β°C to 27Β°C). It can tolerate brief periods outside this range but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can damage the plant.
Pothos is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. Avoid placing it near air conditioning vents, heaters, or drafty windows.
If temperatures drop below 50Β°F (10Β°C), the plant’s growth will slow significantly. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 40Β°F (4Β°C) can cause irreversible damage.
To protect Pothos from extreme temperatures:
1. Move the plant away from cold windows in winter.
2. Use a humidity tray to insulate the plant from cold surfaces.
3. In summer, keep it away from air conditioning vents and hot, sunny windows.
4. If moving the plant outdoors in summer, acclimate it gradually to prevent shock.
Humidity
Pothos prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50-70%. However, it can tolerate average indoor humidity levels.
Symptoms of low humidity stress include brown leaf tips and edges, curling leaves, and increased susceptibility to pests like spider mites.
To increase humidity:
1. Use a pebble tray: Place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot doesn’t sit directly in the water.
2. Misting: Lightly mist the leaves a few times a week, especially in dry environments.
3. Humidifier: Use a room humidifier near the plant for consistent moisture.
4. Grouping plants: Place several plants together to create a microclimate with higher humidity.
Pebble trays and misting are moderately effective for short-term humidity increase. A humidifier is the most effective method for maintaining consistent humidity levels.
Excessive humidity can lead to fungal issues. Ensure good air circulation if using high-humidity methods.
Propagation
Pothos is easily propagated through stem cuttings. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Choose a healthy stem with at least 2-3 leaves.
2. Cut the stem just below a leaf node, ensuring the cutting is 4-6 inches long.
3. Remove the lower leaves, leaving 1-2 at the top.
4. Place the cutting in water or moist potting soil.
5. If using water, change it every few days to prevent bacterial growth.
6. Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light.
7. Roots should develop in 2-4 weeks.
8. Once roots are 1-2 inches long, transplant to soil (if rooted in water).
9. Keep the soil consistently moist for the first few weeks after transplanting.
Water propagation tends to have a higher success rate and allows you to monitor root growth. However, cuttings rooted in soil may transition more easily to their final growing medium.
The best time to propagate Pothos is during the growing season (spring and summer) when the plant is actively growing. New plants typically establish within 1-2 months after rooting.
Potting
Pothos prefers pots with good drainage holes. Plastic, ceramic, or terracotta pots all work well, but ensure they have adequate drainage.
Use a well-draining potting mix designed for indoor plants, or create your own by mixing equal parts potting soil, peat moss, and perlite.
Repot Pothos every 1-2 years or when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes. Spring is the best time for repotting.
Signs that Pothos needs repotting include:
– Roots growing out of drainage holes
– Water running straight through the pot when watering
– Slowed growth despite proper care
– Plant becoming top-heavy or unstable
When repotting:
1. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
2. Gently remove the plant from its current pot.
3. Loosen the root ball and trim any rotted or excessively long roots.
4. Place fresh potting mix in the new pot.
5. Position the plant in the new pot at the same depth it was previously growing.
6. Fill around the roots with fresh potting mix.
7. Water thoroughly and place in a location with bright, indirect light.
8. Avoid fertilizing for a month after repotting to prevent stress on the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Pothos helps maintain its shape, promote bushier growth, and control its size. Here’s a detailed guide:
When to Prune
Prune Pothos during the growing season (spring and summer) for best results. You can prune any time the plant becomes too long or leggy.
Tools Needed
- Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
- Rubbing alcohol for sterilizing tools
Step-by-Step Guide
- Sterilize your pruning tools with rubbing alcohol to prevent disease spread.
- Identify the areas you want to prune. Look for long, leggy vines or areas where you want to encourage branching.
- Cut just above a leaf node (where a leaf attaches to the stem). This encourages new growth from that point.
- For general maintenance, trim back about 1/4 to 1/3 of the plant’s length.
- To encourage bushier growth, pinch off the growing tips of stems.
- Remove any yellow, damaged, or diseased leaves as you prune.
- After pruning, water the plant lightly and place it in a location with bright, indirect light.
Aftercare
After pruning, Pothos may need less water until new growth appears. Resume normal care once you see new leaves developing.
Special Considerations
Save healthy cuttings for propagation. Pothos cuttings root easily in water or moist soil.
Remember, regular pruning encourages fuller, healthier growth and helps maintain the desired size and shape of your Pothos plant.
Blooming
Pothos rarely blooms indoors. In its natural habitat, it may produce small, inconspicuous flowers on a spadix surrounded by a spathe, typical of plants in the Araceae family. The blooming period is not well-defined and occurs infrequently.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
Common issues
Spider mites
Mealybugs
Scale insects
Symptoms
Spider mites: Fine webbing on leaves, tiny moving dots, yellowing leaves
Mealybugs: White, cottony masses on stems and leaf joints
Scale: Small, brown, shell-like bumps on stems and leaves
Treatment
Isolate infected plants
Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove pests
Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap
For severe infestations, use systemic insecticides
Diseases
Common issues
Root rot
Leaf spot
Bacterial blight
Symptoms
Root rot: Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, foul odor from soil
Leaf spot: Brown or black spots on leaves
Bacterial blight: Water-soaked lesions on leaves, rapidly spreading
Treatment
Root rot: Remove affected parts, repot in fresh, well-draining soil
Leaf spot: Remove affected leaves, improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering
Bacterial blight: Remove infected parts, sterilize tools, use copper-based fungicides
Special Features
Pothos is renowned for its air-purifying abilities, effectively removing indoor air pollutants. Its trailing vines make it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or as a climbing plant on trellises or moss poles. The variegated leaves of some varieties add a splash of color and visual interest to any space.
Plant Benefits
While Pothos is not typically used for herbal or pharmaceutical purposes, it has been shown to have air-purifying qualities. NASA’s Clean Air Study found that Pothos can remove indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, xylene, and benzene, potentially improving indoor air quality.
Additional Information
Pothos is often confused with Philodendron, another popular trailing houseplant. While they have similar care requirements, Pothos leaves are typically larger and more heart-shaped. In its natural habitat, Pothos can grow to enormous sizes, with leaves up to 3 feet long, but it rarely reaches such sizes as a houseplant.
Life Cycle
Pothos is a perennial vine that can live for many years with proper care. In its natural habitat, it goes through a juvenile phase with smaller leaves that grow close to the ground, and an adult phase where it climbs trees and produces larger leaves. As a houseplant, it typically remains in its juvenile form. Pothos grows continuously throughout the year but may slow down in winter. It rarely flowers or produces seeds in indoor conditions.
Are Pothos Poisonous, Toxic
Pothos is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat if chewed or eaten. Symptoms include drooling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. While rarely fatal, it can cause significant discomfort. If ingested, rinse the mouth with water and seek medical attention or contact a poison control center. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and children.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my Pothos?
Water your Pothos when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. This usually means watering once every 1-2 weeks, depending on light and humidity conditions.
Is Pothos toxic to pets?
Yes, Pothos is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth and digestive tract.
How do I propagate Pothos?
Pothos can be easily propagated by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or moist soil. Ensure each cutting has at least one leaf and node.
Why are my Pothos leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, low light, or nutrient deficiencies. Check the soil moisture and adjust care accordingly.
How much light does Pothos need?
Pothos prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low to moderate light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
How often should I fertilize my Pothos?
Fertilize Pothos every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
How do I make my Pothos fuller?
To make Pothos fuller, regularly prune the vines to encourage branching. You can also propagate cuttings and plant them back into the pot.
Why are my Pothos leaves drooping?
Drooping leaves usually indicate underwatering. However, overwatering can also cause drooping. Check the soil moisture and adjust watering accordingly.
How often should I repot my Pothos?
Repot Pothos every 1-2 years or when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter.
Can Pothos grow in water permanently?
Yes, Pothos can grow in water permanently. However, it may not grow as vigorously as in soil and will require regular fertilization with a liquid fertilizer.
Can I grow Pothos indoors
Difficulty
Easy
Size
Medium
Light
Medium
Water
Medium
Flowering
No
Pet Safe
No
Air Purifier
High
Epipremnum aureum botanical details
Common Name
Pothos
Other Common Names
Devil’s Ivy, Golden Pothos, Money Plant, Silver Vine
Botanical Name
Epipremnum aureum
Native Area
Solomon Islands
Family Name
Araceae
Plant Type
Perennial vine
Genus
Epipremnum
Kingdom
Plantae
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Is there anything else you can tell me?
Why did the Pothos plant go to therapy? It had too many hang-ups!