How to Propagate Pothos: Complete Guide
Pothos is one of the easiest plants to propagate. In this guide, you'll learn two methods - water and soil propagation - plus expert tips for 100% success rate.
Quick Summary
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Time to Root: 2-4 weeks
- Best Season: Spring/Summer
- Success Rate: ~95%
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is the perfect plant to start your propagation journey. It roots quickly, forgives mistakes, and can even live in water indefinitely. Whether you want to multiply your collection, share with friends, or fill out a leggy plant, propagation is the answer.
Water Propagation
The most popular method because you can watch roots develop in real-time. Perfect for beginners.
Choose a healthy vine
Select a vine with at least 4-6 leaves. Look for healthy, vibrant green leaves without yellowing or damage.
Identify the nodes
Nodes are the small brown bumps on the stem where leaves attach. This is where roots will grow. Each cutting needs at least one node.
Make your cuts
Using clean scissors or pruning shears, cut about 1/2 inch below a node. Each cutting should have 2-3 leaves and 1-2 nodes.
Remove lower leaves
Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water. Leaves underwater will rot and contaminate the water.
Place in water
Put cuttings in a clear glass jar with room temperature water. The node(s) should be submerged, but leaves should stay above water.
Find the right spot
Place in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight which can cook the cuttings and encourage algae growth.
Change water weekly
Fresh water provides oxygen and prevents bacterial growth. Top up as needed between changes.
Wait for roots
Roots typically appear in 1-2 weeks. Wait until roots are 2-3 inches long before transplanting to soil.
Soil Propagation
Skip the transition shock from water to soil. Roots develop directly in their permanent home.
Prepare cuttings
Follow the same cutting process as water propagation: healthy vine, cut below node, 2-3 leaves per cutting.
Optional: Use rooting hormone
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. This speeds up root development but isn't strictly necessary for pothos.
Prepare the pot
Use a small pot (4 inch) with drainage holes. Fill with moist, well-draining potting mix.
Plant the cuttings
Make a hole with your finger or pencil. Insert cutting so at least one node is buried. Firm the soil around it.
Create humidity
Cover with a clear plastic bag or cloche to maintain humidity. Open daily to prevent mold.
Keep soil moist
The soil should stay consistently moist (not soggy) until roots establish. Mist if the top feels dry.
Wait for growth
After 3-4 weeks, gently tug the cutting. Resistance means roots have formed. Remove the humidity cover.
Pro Tips for Success
Best Time to Propagate
Spring and summer when plants are actively growing. Cuttings root 2-3x faster during the growing season.
Water Temperature Matters
Use room temperature water. Cold water shocks the cuttings; warm water encourages bacteria.
Clear vs. Opaque Containers
Clear jars let you monitor root growth, but algae can be an issue. Change water more frequently with clear containers.
Multiple Cuttings Per Pot
Plant 3-5 cuttings in one pot for a fuller plant from the start. The mother plant will also become bushier from pruning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cutting without a node
Fix: Always include at least one node on each cutting - that's where roots emerge.
Submerging leaves in water
Fix: Remove any leaves that would be underwater to prevent rot.
Not changing water
Fix: Stagnant water breeds bacteria. Change weekly or when it looks cloudy.
Transplanting too early
Fix: Wait until roots are 2-3 inches long for the best transplant success.
Direct sunlight
Fix: Cuttings are fragile. Bright indirect light is ideal during rooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for pothos to root in water?
Pothos typically develops visible roots within 7-14 days in water. You'll want to wait until roots are 2-3 inches long before transplanting, which usually takes 3-4 weeks total. In cooler temperatures or during winter, rooting can take up to 6 weeks.
Can pothos live in water forever?
Yes! Pothos can live indefinitely in water alone. However, growth will be slower and leaves smaller compared to soil-grown plants. If keeping in water long-term, add a few drops of liquid fertilizer monthly and change water regularly.
Why are my pothos cuttings rotting in water?
Rot is usually caused by: 1) Leaves submerged in water, 2) Stagnant, unchanged water, 3) Too much direct sunlight, or 4) Cutting taken from an unhealthy plant. Remove rotted portions immediately and change to fresh water.
Is it better to propagate pothos in water or soil?
Water propagation is easier for beginners because you can see root development. However, water roots are different from soil roots, so there's an adjustment period when transplanting. Soil propagation skips this step but requires more attention to moisture levels.
Track Your Plant Propagation
Use BotanAI's growth timeline to document your propagation journey from cutting to thriving plant.
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