Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is easy to care for and grows quickly. It is known for its striking, variegated leaves and its ability to thrive in a variety of lighting conditions. One of the best things about pothos is that it is incredibly easy to propagate, meaning you can create new plants from cuttings. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to propagate pothos successfully.
Why Propagate Pothos?
Propagating pothos has several benefits. Firstly, it is an affordable way to grow new plants without having to buy them from a store. Additionally, propagating your pothos will allow you to share the plants with friends and family. Lastly, propagating pothos will enable you to grow a larger number of plants and fill your home with the lush, tropical foliage that pothos provides.
When to Propagate Pothos?
The best time to propagate pothos is during the growing season, which typically runs from late spring to early fall. During this time, the plant is actively growing and producing new foliage, making it the perfect time to take cuttings. Avoid propagating pothos during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
How to Propagate Pothos?
There are two primary ways to propagate pothos: through stem cuttings and through water propagation. Both methods are relatively straightforward and can be completed by gardeners of all skill levels.
Learn how to propagate pothos in just 6 easy steps
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most common method for propagating pothos. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose a healthy vine. Look for a vine that is at least 6 inches long and has several leaves. Make sure the vine is healthy and has no signs of disease or damage.
- Cut the vine. Using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears, cut the vine just below a node. Nodes are the points on the vine where leaves grow.
- Prepare the cutting. Remove any leaves from the vine, leaving only two or three at the top of the cutting.
- Plant the cutting. Fill a small pot with potting soil and make a hole in the center. Insert the cutting into the hole and gently press the soil around it.
- Water the cutting. Water the cutting thoroughly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Wait for the roots to grow. Place the pot in a warm, bright location and wait for the roots to grow. This can take several weeks to several months, depending on the conditions.
Water Propagation
5 simple steps to propagating your pothos plant
Water propagation is another simple and effective method for propagating pothos. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose a healthy vine. Look for a vine that is at least 6 inches long and has several leaves. Make sure the vine is healthy and has no signs of disease or damage.
- Cut the vine. Using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears, cut the vine just below a node. Nodes are the points on the vine where leaves grow.
- Place the cutting in water. Fill a small glass or jar with water and place the cutting in it. Make sure the node where you made the cut is submerged in the water.
- Wait for the roots to grow. Place the glass or jar in a warm, bright location and wait for the roots to grow. This can take several weeks to several months, depending on the conditions.
- Plant the cutting. Once the roots are several inches long, carefully remove the cutting from the water and plant it in potting soil.
Propagation Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you successfully propagate pothos:
- Use a rooting hormone. Using a rooting hormone can help the cutting develop roots faster and more robustly. Simply dip the cut end of the vine in rooting hormone before planting it in soil or water.
- Keep the soil moist. When propagating pothos through stem cuttings, it is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and damage the cutting.
- Change the water regularly. When propagating pothos through water propagation, it is essential to change the water every few days to prevent stagnation and bacterial growth.
- Provide bright, indirect light. Whether you are propagating pothos through stem cuttings or water propagation, it is crucial to provide the cutting with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- Patience is key. Propagating pothos can take some time, so be patient and give the cutting time to develop roots and new growth.
Propagating pothos is a simple and effective way to grow new plants and share your love of gardening with others. Whether you choose to propagate through stem cuttings or water propagation, following these steps will help you achieve success. Remember to be patient, provide the cutting with bright, indirect light, and keep the soil or water moist. With a little time and effort, you will be rewarded with new pothos plants to enjoy.
