EASY TO LOVE
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera
Pothos
Complete Care Guide
Epipremnum aureum
Pothos is one of the easiest and most forgiving houseplants. It adapts to a wide range of light levels, grows quickly, and clearly shows when it needs water.
EasyLow To Medium humidityPet caution
Care varies with climate, season, roots and indoor conditions. Check your plant and soil before watering. Keep this plant away from plant-chewing pets.
Pothos Care at a Glance
Pothos is a classic beginner-friendly houseplant with trailing vines that look great on shelves, desks, or hanging baskets.
Best For
- Beginners
- Low light rooms
- Offices
- Hanging baskets
- Busy plant owners
Not Great For
- Homes with plant-chewing pets
- Overwatering habits
- Cold environments
Light Requirements
Pothos grows best in medium to bright indirect light but survives well in low light. More light encourages faster growth and stronger variegation.
How to Water Pothos
Water when the top layer of soil feels dry. Leaves will slightly droop when thirsty and perk up quickly after watering.
Watering Tips
- Always empty the saucer after watering.
- Reduce watering frequency in winter.
- If unsure, wait another day before watering.
Soil and Pot Choice
Use a light, well-draining potting mix in a pot with drainage holes. Avoid heavy soils that stay wet too long.
Pruning and Training
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth. Trim vines just above a leaf node and use cuttings for propagation.
How to Propagate Pothos (Water Method)
- Cut a healthy vine below a node with at least one leaf.
- Place the cutting in water, ensuring the node is submerged.
- Change water every few days.
- Once roots reach 5–8 cm (2–3 inches), pot into soil.
Pothos Problems (Fast Fix Guide)
Yellow leaves
Possible contributor: Overwatering
Try after checking: Allow soil to dry more between waterings
Symptoms overlap. Check soil moisture, light and roots before treating.
Long bare vines
Possible contributor: Low light
Try after checking: Move to brighter indirect light and prune
Symptoms overlap. Check soil moisture, light and roots before treating.
Brown tips
Possible contributor: Dry air or salt buildup
Try after checking: Flush soil and increase humidity slightly
Symptoms overlap. Check soil moisture, light and roots before treating.
Pet Safety Warning
- Pothos is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed.
- Keep out of reach of pets and small children.
Pet warning
Contains calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing may cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting.
More ways to learn
These links open external video sites.
Extra reading
FAQ
How often should I water pothos?
When the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. It’s better to underwater slightly than overwater.
Can pothos grow in low light?
Yes, but growth will be slower and variegation may fade.
Why are my pothos leaves turning yellow?
Most often from overwatering or poor drainage.
Is pothos safe for pets?
No. Pothos is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.
