In some Asian countries, Pothos plants are believed to bring money, good luck, and positive energy. Whether you believe this to be true or you simply love seeing its lush green leaves inside your home, propagating this plant is surely a nice idea.
To know how to propagate your Pothos, we’ll lay here the easy-to-follow guide for each method.
How Do I Propagate Pothos Plants?
You can propagate Pothos plants from stem cuttings and seeds. Then, you can use water and soil as mediums to grow roots.
Now, let’s cover the three easy methods on how to get it done!
How Do I Propagate Pothos Plants in Water?
Propagating the stem cuttings of Pothos plants in water is the simplest and the most fun method to perform. This will allow you to witness the progress of a stem as it starts to grow roots.
- Look for nodes—brownish bumps where aerial roots grow—along the stems of the mother Pothos.
- Now, using sharp and clean pruning scissors, cut the stem just below the nodes.
- Pluck off the leaves at the bottom and leave just one or two on top of each stem cutting.
- Fill a small container—a vase, jar, or stout bottle—with fresh water, then place the stem cutting in it.
- Make sure not to submerge the leaves since it’ll only lead to rot.
- You can place the cuttings in an area where they can get bright, indirect sunlight.
- They need this to create energy that’ll help them survive and grow.
- Replace the water in the container regularly or at least once a week.
How Do I Propagate Pothos Plants Directly in Soil?
You can propagate the Pothos by taking the rooted stem cuttings from the water and transferring it into the soil. Make sure that the stems have developed roots about one or two inches in length before you plant them in the soil.
Another option is to propagate Pothos plants by directly planting the stem cuttings in the soil as follows:
- Cut the stem using pruning scissors.
- Make sure that the cutting has some nodes on it, as this is where roots will sprout from.
- Pluck off the bottom leaves using scissors and leave one or two at the top of each stem.
- Dip the edge of the stem cuttings in powder rooting hormone to stimulate the growth of roots
- Plant the cuttings in a small container with a well-draining potting soil mix.
- Make sure that the pot has holes at the bottom to drain the soil and allow for airspace.
- Push the stem cuttings into the soil, just enough to bury the nodes.
- Water the Pothos plant until the soil appears moist but not soggy within the first month.
- Soon after, you can just water it when the soil becomes slightly dry.
- Finally, position your potted cuttings somewhere they can get bright and indirect light.
How Do I Propagate Pothos Plants From Seed?
Most growers prefer to use the first two methods since propagating from seeds usually takes time.
Nonetheless, if you have seeds and you want to follow this method, you definitely can!
- Scoop one tablespoon of seeds and drop them in a small bowl of fresh water.
- Stir for a few seconds, then let the seeds settle to the bottom.
- Remove the ones that stay afloat and leave the rest in the water for eight to twelve hours to boost the germination rate of the seeds.
- Get a starter pot that has holes at the bottom and pour your potting mix into it.
- Drop the seeds on the surface of the potting mix, then sprinkle the soil over it.
- Place the potted seed in a corner where it can’t get direct sunlight.
- Seeds germinate best in dark environments with enough airflow.
- Keep the soil moist during the germination period by spraying it with tap or filtered water.
- Start repotting the seedlings once you see two or three leaves.
- Plant each seedling in an average-sized pot with a potting mix that drains well.
- Place your Pothos plants by the windowsill where they can get bright, indirect sunlight.
- Water them whenever the soil feels dry and feed them once a month during their growing period.
How Long Does It Take To Propagate Pothos Plants?
Pothos plants usually take four to six weeks to develop ready-to-plant roots. Sometimes, they may take longer.
It’s advisable to patiently wait until you’ve got about an inch or two of growth before transferring your plant into the soil. Just don’t let it develop longer roots before the transfer since it’ll be hard for them to get accustomed to the new environment.
FAQs
When is the best time to propagate pothos plants?
You can propagate Pothos plants at any time of the year.
However, for the best success rates, you may propagate Pothos cuttings in spring. This will give them plenty of time to get established over sunny days.
Should I grow pothos in water or soil?
Propagating stem cuttings of Pothos in water usually yields better results than directly planting the stem cuttings in soil.
You may choose to let the new Pothos live in the water for good, but you’ll need to change the water from time to time. You can also transfer the rooted stem cuttings from the water into the soil for less hassle.
What kind of soil should I use for pothos cuttings?
You should use a potting mix that provides good drainage.
A potting soil with a mixture of half perlite or sand and peat moss will help the cuttings get a good start.
Conclusion
Knowing how to propagate Pothos plants is fun. You can propagate them in water for the sheer joy of witnessing their roots’ development or you can propagate them in the soil to limit the need for transplanting them.
This way you can make the most from the leggy stems of a mother Pothos. Plus, you can ornament your indoor space with lush green leaves that are capable of filtering toxic air indoors.
