Prop Spot: Pothos (Epipremnum Aureum)

Several years ago, my grandmother had given me a cutting of her Pothos. The cutting had 3 healthy leaves, on a vine about a foot long. Over the years, it wound its way around a bookshelf several times. It wasn't until I found the joy of propagation that I had realized this plant had grew to nearly 25 feet.

What started off as a foot long vine has now been propagated into over a dozen new plants. It takes patience, but I've found that as long as a stem has several nodes- not even a single leaf, it can still grow. I love this resilient plant so much, it's been incorporated into Modern Prop's logo, and deserves the first entry in my Prop Spot series.

Pothos in Tinker XX (Structure Series, Olive)

What is Pothos?

Pothos, or Epipremnum aureum, is a resilient vine native to the Solomon Islands. This tropical plant is known for its ability to thrive in different light conditions, making it ideal for any home. Whether you’re hanging it in a planter or allowing it to climb a trellis, pothos can transform your space into a vibrant green oasis.

Not only is pothos easy to care for, but propagating it also lets you expand your collection or share these beautiful plants with friends and family. Watching the roots develop is a rewarding experience that brings excitement to any plant lover.

Why Propagate in Water?

Water propagation is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to multiply your pothos. Here are some reasons why it's such a popular method:

• Visual Monitoring: Water propagation allows you to see the growth of the roots as they develop in clear water. You can enjoy the whole process and appreciate the transformation.

• Faster Growth: When cut ends are submerged, they can absorb moisture quickly. This additional hydration can lead to faster root development, allowing you to expand your collection sooner. For example, many plant lovers report roots developing within 2 to 4 weeks.

my largest Pothos vine, segmented in a bulk water prop test.

Materials You'll Need

Before starting, gather these materials for your propagation journey:

• Healthy pothos plant: Choose a mother plant that looks robust and has enough healthy vines.

• Sharp scissors or pruning shears: Clean cuts will help steer clear of damaging the plant.

  
  

• Clear container of water: A glass jar or vase is perfect for visibility and growth monitoring.

  
  

• Clean environment: Opt for a well-lit area, but avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can harm the cuttings.

  
  

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get on to the fun part!

Taking Cuttings

1. Locate the right stem: Look for a healthy vine with at least two to four leaves. A good choice will have well-developed nodes, as these contain the potential for new root growth.

   
   

2. Make your cut: Use your scissors or shears to cut the vine just below a node. Aim for a cutting that is 4 to 6 inches long. The more nodes you include, the greater your chances of successful propagation.

   
   

3. Prepare the cuttings: Remove the leaves from the bottom node or two to avoid any rot from submerged leaves.

   
   

4. Place in water: Fill your clear container with water and submerge the nodes, keeping the leaves above the water level.

   
   

Caring for Your Cuttings

With your cuttings safely in the water, provide them with the right conditions to flourish:

• Light: Position the container in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight. Ensure they are not overexposed, as that can harm the cuttings.

  
  

• Water maintenance: Add more water instead of replacing on a schedule, unless the water gets cloudy. Pothos generates rooting hormones in the water, so regularly replacing it is a disservice to the plant.

  
  

• Patience: Roots typically take about 2 to 4 weeks to form, depending on conditions. Over time, you’ll notice little white roots emerging from the nodes, marking successful growth.

  
  

my first Pothos leaf growing from a stem cutting

Transplanting to Soil

Once your pothos cuttings boast roots that are at least 2-3 inches long, you can move them to soil. Here’s how to ensure a successful transition:

1. Choose your pot: Select a small pot with drainage holes. Good drainage is key to preventing root rot.

   
   

2. Use the right soil: A well-draining potting mix is ideal for pothos. You can use a standard houseplant mix or create your own by mixing potting soil with perlite or orchid bark for increased aeration.

   
   

3. Transplant the cuttings: Gently place the rooted cuttings into the soil, making sure the nodes are buried while the leaves remain above the soil.

   
   

4. Water well: After planting, give your new pothos a good drink to help it settle into its new home.

   
   

5. Care for the new plant: Place your new pothos in bright, indirect light and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

   
   

Congratulations! You now have multiple pothos plants to decorate your home or share with friends!