DIG THIS
Pothos, also known as Epipremnum aureum, is one of the few plants that can grow in water forever.
Just pop a cutting in a vase, and it will thrive without soil! Or use this method to easily propagate. Wait until the cutting grows roots in the water then plant it in soil.
Pretty Chill
Indirect Sunlight
Water When Dry
Not Pet Safe
INDIRECT SUNLIGHT
CAN ALSO SURVIVE IN LOW LIGHT
Pothos is one of the ultimate low-maintenance houseplants. As long as it is kept out of direct sun, a Pothos will grow with ease.
It can also survive a low-light corner if need be. However, if you notice the plant not looking as vibrant or getting leggy, it may need more light.
FIND YOUR LIGHT
Take a moment to note which direction the windows face in your space. Then tap around the room below to see how the light hits throughout the day.
SOUTH-FACING WINDOW
⊹ Highest amount of sunlight ⊹
⊹ Consistent light all day ⊹
⊹ Perfect for "full sun" plants ⊹
EAST-FACING WINDOW
⊹ Soft morning sunlight ⊹
⊹ Avoids harsh afternoon rays ⊹
⊹ Perfect for low to indirect light plants ⊹
⚠︎ May not be bright enough for "full sun" plants
WEST-FACING WINDOW
⊹ Brightest in the afternoon ⊹
⊹ Warm, golden hour glow ⊹
⊹ Great for indirect-sun lovers ⊹
⚠︎ Can overheat sensitive plants
NORTH-FACING WINDOW
⊹ No direct sunlight ⊹
⊹ Avoids harsh afternoon rays ⊹
⊹ Perfect for shade-tolerant plants ⊹
⚠︎ Can be too dim for most houseplants. If this is your only light source, consider using a grow light for your sun-loving plants!
WATER WHEN DRY
Pothos is considered to be drought-tolerant, which essentially means it would rather be left without water for awhile than kept soggy.
Wait until the top few inches of soil feel dry, then give it a drink.
LOW TO MODERATE HUMIDITY
To put it simply, this plant can thrive indoors without the aid of a humidifier.
Keep in mind, dust can collect on its leaves, so an occasional wipe down with a damp cloth is helpful!
SOIL
POTHOS DIGS A WELL-DRAINING MIX
When choosing a potting mix for this houseplant, look for mixes that include:
PERLITE
Looks like tiny white popcorn bits mixed into the soil. Improves drainage and prevents waterlogging.
ORCHID BARK
Looks like chunky, reddish-brown wood chips. Adds airflow and helps keep soil from getting too dense.
COCO COIR
Looks like fluffy, light brown fibers like shredded coconut husk (what it's made from). Helps hold moisture without making the soil too wet.
COMMON ISSUES
YELLOWING
Yellowing leaves/edges is a possible sign of overwatering. Soil that has been overwatered can lead to root rot.
Remove affected leaves. Dry out soil completely (1-5 days). Adjust your watering schedule for this plant.
If problem persists and/or you suspect root rot: remove from pot, trim away dead mushy roots, and repot in fresh soil.
BROWNING / CRISPING
Often due to over or underwatering or possible mineral buildup from hard tap water. A little tricky!
Try using distilled or filtered water for a Pothos plant. Although it is drought-tolerant, it still needs hydration once in awhile! Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule.
Keep out of direct sunlight to avoid possible leaf scorch.
LEGGY
A sign of not enough sunlight.
If you notice a Pothos looking leggy and weak, or leaf size has reduced, try moving it to a brighter spot. You may even want to rotate it regularly to keep it lush.
WILTING/CURLING
⊹ SOIL CHECK ⊹
Soggy: Likely overwatered or poor drainage. Ensure your pot has drainage holes. Allow soil to dry out a bit. Consider mixing in perlite or orchid bark for extra airflow.
Bone dry: Needs a drink. Water thoroughly until water drains from bottom.
PESTS
Sometimes issues can be the result of a pest infestation. Watch out for these creepy crawlers:
Aphids
Fungus Gnats
Mealybugs
Spider Mites
Scale
PERLITE