How to Propagate Golden Pothos: A Step-by-Step Guide
Golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum), known for its heart-shaped leaves and vining growth, is one of the easiest plants to propagate. Whether you’re looking to expand your collection or share cuttings with friends, propagating golden pothos is a simple and rewarding process.
In this article, we will walk you through how to propagate golden pothos step by step, from choosing the right cutting to successfully growing new plants.
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Why Propagate Golden Pothos?
Propagation is an excellent way to multiply your golden pothos plants without spending extra money on new ones. It also helps to rejuvenate older plants that may have grown too long or leggy. When you propagate, you can keep your plant fuller and promote new, healthy growth. Plus, pothos propagation is easy, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
Methods for Propagating Golden Pothos
There are two main ways to propagate golden pothos: in water and in soil. Both methods are effective, but they require different care and conditions. Below, we’ll cover each method in detail so you can decide which one is best for you.
1. Propagating Golden Pothos in Water
Propagating golden pothos in water is the most popular method because it allows you to see the roots grow, and it requires minimal equipment. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Guide to Water Propagation
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, gather the following supplies:
- A clean pair of scissors or pruning shears
- A small jar or glass of water
- A healthy golden pothos plant for cuttings
Step 2: Choose a Healthy Stem
Select a long, healthy stem from your golden pothos. Look for stems that have at least four to six leaves and several nodes (the points where leaves attach to the stem). The nodes are important because this is where the new roots will grow.
Step 3: Make the Cut
Using clean scissors, cut the stem just below a node. Each cutting should have at least one node and a few leaves. Remove the leaf closest to the cut so that the node is exposed, as this will allow roots to grow without obstruction.
Step 4: Place in Water
Fill your jar or glass with clean water and place the pothos cutting in it, ensuring that the node is submerged in water. The leaves should remain above the water level to prevent rotting.
Step 5: Place in Bright, Indirect Light
Put the jar in a location where it will receive bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and heat the water too much.
Step 6: Change the Water Regularly
To keep the water fresh and oxygenated, change it every 2-3 days. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria and encourages healthy root development.
Step 7: Wait for Roots to Grow
In about 2-4 weeks, you should see roots starting to form from the node. Once the roots are at least 2-3 inches long, the cutting is ready to be transferred to soil.
Step 8: Transfer to Soil (Optional)
Once your cutting has a healthy root system, you can plant it in a small pot filled with well-draining potting mix. Make sure to water the new plant regularly to help it adjust to the new environment.
2. Propagating Golden Pothos in Soil
While water propagation is more common, you can also propagate golden pothos directly in soil. This method is slightly faster for growing strong, soil-adapted roots, but it requires a bit more attention in the early stages.
Step-by-Step Guide to Soil Propagation
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
For soil propagation, you’ll need:
- A clean pair of scissors or pruning shears
- A small pot with drainage holes
- A well-draining potting mix (you can use a mix designed for indoor plants)
- A healthy golden pothos plant for cuttings
Step 2: Select a Stem Cutting
As with water propagation, choose a healthy stem with multiple nodes and several leaves. Cut just below a node, and remove the leaf closest to the node.
Step 3: Prepare the Pot and Soil
Fill a small pot with a well-draining potting mix. Make sure the soil is slightly moist, but not waterlogged.
Step 4: Plant the Cutting
Insert the cutting into the soil, ensuring that the node is buried about 1-2 inches deep. Press the soil around the base of the cutting to hold it in place.
Step 5: Water the Cutting
Water the soil lightly to settle the cutting in, but be careful not to overwater. The soil should be damp, but not soggy, as this can cause rot before the cutting develops roots.
Step 6: Provide Ideal Growing Conditions
Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect sunlight and maintain consistent moisture in the soil. Keep the plant in a warm room with temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C).
Step 7: Wait for Growth
In about 2-4 weeks, the cutting should develop roots. You can check for root growth by gently tugging on the cutting—if there is resistance, roots have formed.
Care for Newly Propagated Golden Pothos
Whether you choose to propagate your pothos in water or soil, caring for the new plant is essential to ensure it continues to grow and thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your newly propagated golden pothos:
1. Keep the Soil Moist, But Not Soggy
For newly propagated pothos, maintaining the right level of moisture is crucial. Overwatering can lead to rot, while underwatering can stunt growth. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring that excess water drains away from the pot.
2. Provide Bright, Indirect Light
Like mature pothos plants, cuttings need bright, indirect light to grow. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn, and don’t leave them in low-light conditions, which can slow down growth.
3. Maintain a Stable Temperature
Golden pothos thrive in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Keep your propagated cuttings away from cold drafts, air conditioners, or radiators.
4. Fertilize Sparingly
Once your propagated plant starts to show new growth, you can begin to fertilize it lightly. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the delicate new roots.
Common Questions About Propagating Golden Pothos
How Long Does It Take for Golden Pothos to Root?
It typically takes 2-4 weeks for pothos cuttings to develop roots. The exact timing depends on the propagation method and environmental conditions, such as temperature and light.
Can You Propagate Pothos in Water Permanently?
Yes, you can keep your pothos cutting in water indefinitely. However, plants grown in water will develop water-adapted roots, which are different from soil-adapted roots. If you plan to transfer your plant to soil eventually, it’s best to do so once the roots are around 2-3 inches long.
Why Is My Pothos Cutting Not Rooting?
If your cutting isn’t rooting, it could be due to factors such as insufficient light, low temperatures, or improper water or soil conditions. Ensure the cutting is placed in bright, indirect light, and the environment is warm. For water propagation, change the water regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
Conclusion
Propagating golden pothos is a straightforward and enjoyable way to grow new plants. Whether you choose to propagate in water or soil, the key is to provide the right care and conditions for the cuttings to thrive. With a bit of patience, you’ll soon have healthy new pothos plants to add to your collection or share with friends.
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