Table of Contents
The Basics of Pothos Care
The term "pothos" refers to a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae. The name "pothos" is often used to describe various species within this genus, most commonly Epipremnum aureum, which is a popular houseplant known for its attractive, heart-shaped leaves and ease of care. While there Here are some key tips for keeping your pothos healthy and thriving:Light:
Pothos plants prefer indirect light. They can tolerate low light conditions, but they thrive in medium to bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Watering:
Water your pothos when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has good drainage. Pothos plants are somewhat drought-tolerant, so it's better to under-water than over-water.
Humidity and Temperature:
These plants enjoy a moderate to high humidity level but can tolerate average household humidity. The ideal temperature for a pothos plant is between 60-80°F (15-27°C).
Soil:
Use a well-draining potting mix. A standard houseplant potting soil works well.
Fertilizing:
Fertilize your pothos with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer). In fall and winter, reduce feeding as the plant's growth slows down.
Pruning:
Regular pruning helps the plant to maintain a full and lush appearance. Snip off any dead or yellowing leaves, and trim the vines to encourage bushier growth.
Repotting:
Repot your pothos every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one.
Pest Management:
Keep an eye out for common pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Varieties of Pothos
Once you start your research on pothos, you’ll quickly find that there are quite a few varieties. Each species and variety can have slightly different care requirements and appearances, but generally, they are all quite adaptable and easy to care for as houseplants. They are popular for their ability to thrive in a variety of indoor conditions and their attractive foliage.
Read on to learn about some of the best options for your indoor decor!
Marble Queen Pothos
You can find Marble Queen Pothos at most plant nurseries and they are notoriously easy to care for. The green and white marble leaves form a cascading vine that makes it the perfect option for a hanging planter. This plant does best with indirect light and consistent watering but is very resilient so don’t panic if you miss a few waterings!
Golden Pothos
If you are familiar with pothos, the Golden Pothos is most likely the one you’ve seen around. Another easy-to-care-for variety, this is a great option for first-time plant parents or anyone who wants low-maintenance greenery to complement their home. They can withstand minimal natural light and little water for weeks, and even have air-purifying qualities! If you are on the fence about what plant to get, Golden Pothos is always a safe choice that will not disappoint.
Pearls and Jade Pothos
Unlike the cascading nature of some other pothos, the Pearls and Jade Pothos are known to climb! Although they tend to be slow-growing, this variety can climb up to 30 feet! (Don’t worry though – on average, they reach 6-10 feet tall, which is much more manageable for our indoor spaces). Pearls and Jade thrive in indirect light and should not be overwatered to avoid root rot.
Silver Pothos
If your interior design is missing a vine integrated into its surrounding, check out the Silver Pothos. Also known as Satin Pothos, Silver Pothos attaches to other surfaces through its roots and, although it sometimes needs a bit of help, encircles whatever it is placed by. We love this option to decorate an indoor trellis structure. These heart-shaped and silver-spotted leaves are sure to step up your decor.
Neon Pothos
As expected from its name, the Neon Pothos displays vibrant green leaves, guaranteed to be the star of any indoor plant display. We love that this plant can adapt to any amount of light, so it can be placed in a dimly lit room to allow its leaves to bring brightness into the space.
If you want to make sure it keeps its neon colors, a growlight is a great option. We recommend the Aspect™ LED Hanging Pendant Growlight, which allows your plant to be displayed away from a natural light source while still getting the exposure it needs to stay lively.
Hawaiian Pothos
To transform your home into a beachy haven, Hawaiian Pothos bring a tropical feel with their curvy-edged golden leaves. These plants grow rather quickly, so make sure to keep up with repotting and pruning to ensure they stay healthy and look fresh. You can also propagate Hawaiian Pothos by cutting at the stem and placing it in water; within a few weeks, you’ll have a baby Hawaiian Pothos to decorate with!
Jessenia Pothos
A variety of the Marble Queen Pothos, the Jessenia Pothos shares similar heart-shaped leaves with a marbled color design. What we love about the Jessenia Pothos is the unique color of its vegetation. Compared to the light green Marble Queen variety, the Jessenia shows a darker, richer green, making the marble effect a bit more muted. Consistent with other varieties, the Jessenia requires minimal attention and makes a beautiful hanging plant!
Manjula Pothos
The Manjula Pothos will add a bit of spunk to your space. With curvy leaves and an irregular white and green pattern, this plant doesn’t need a fancy planter to help it stand out. If you are looking for a slow-growing vine that will display unique patterns throughout your space, the Manjula Pothos is calling your name! Since they do grow rather slowly, make sure this vine is given plenty of indirect sunlight to encourage growth.
Why Choose Pothos:
As with most plants, introducing pothos plants into your home can offer aesthetic benefits. Pothos, however, also boosts wellness in unique ways, as well as offers some unique decor solutions no plant owner will want to miss out on! Here are some of the key advantages:
Air Purification:
Pothos plants are known for their ability to purify indoor air. They can absorb and remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the environment. This can contribute to better indoor air quality, which is especially beneficial in spaces with limited ventilation.
Easy Care:
Pothos plants are incredibly easy to care for, making them ideal for busy individuals or those new to houseplants. They are tolerant of a range of lighting conditions and can survive occasional neglect, like under-watering.
Aesthetic Appeal:
The lush, green foliage of pothos plants can add a touch of nature to your living space. They can be used as hanging plants, allowing their vines to cascade gracefully, or trained to climb along a trellis or shelf, adding visual interest to your décor.
Mood Enhancement and Stress Reduction:
Like many houseplants, pothos can contribute to a sense of well-being, reduce stress, and enhance mood. The act of caring for plants can be therapeutic and fulfilling.
Humidity Control:
Pothos plants release moisture into the air through a process called transpiration, which can help to maintain a healthy level of indoor humidity. This can be particularly beneficial in dry climates or during winter when indoor heating can dry out the air.
Improves Focus and Productivity:
Some studies suggest that having plants in your workspace can improve concentration, productivity, and creativity. The presence of greenery can create a more pleasant and tranquil environment, conducive to focus and clear thinking.
Natural Screen or Divider:
Pothos vines can be grown to create a natural screen or divider in your home, which can be useful in open-plan spaces or for creating privacy.
Versatility in Decor:
Pothos can fit into various interior design styles, from modern to bohemian, and can be displayed in different ways – in pots, hanging baskets, or even in water-filled jars as a hydroponic plant.
Overall, pothos plants are a low-maintenance and versatile option for enhancing the aesthetic and environmental quality of your home.
Before Planting Pothos:
When choosing a pothos plant for your home, there are several factors to consider to ensure that the plant thrives and suits your living space. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
-
Light Conditions:
Assess the lighting conditions in the area where you plan to place your pothos. While pothos are tolerant of low light, they do best in medium to bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. If you need more control of the available light, try introducing a grow light to the setup. We recommend the Grove™ LED grow bar light, which allows you to both dim and to rotate the light for optimal exposure.
-
Size and Growth Habit:
Consider the size of the plant and its potential growth. Pothos can grow long, trailing vines, so think about whether you have the space for a hanging plant or if you prefer to train it to climb. Ensure you have enough room for the plant to grow and spread. Pothos plants can grow quite large and may need regular pruning to keep them manageable. Ensure you have the time and desire to maintain the plant.
-
Pet Safety:
If you have pets, be aware that pothos plants are toxic when ingested. The plant can cause irritation and vomiting in pets, so it’s important to place it out of reach if you have curious animals.
Sources:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/pothos/pothos-plant-care.htm
https://www.epicgardening.com/types-of-pothos/
https://www.gardeningchores.com/pothos-varieties/
https://www.teakandterracotta.com/hawaiian-pothos/
https://www.livelyroot.com/blogs/plant-care/how-to-grow-and-care-for-your-golden-pothos
