Epipremnum Pothos Care Guide

Epipremnum Pothos Care Guide

Epipremnum, commonly known as Pothos or Devil's Ivy, is one of the most popular and forgiving houseplants. With their trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, these versatile plants are perfect for beginners and make excellent hanging basket or climbing specimens.

Popular Varieties

  • Golden Pothos - Classic variety with golden-yellow variegation
  • Marble Queen - White and green marbled leaves
  • Jade Pothos - Solid green leaves, very hardy
  • Neon Pothos - Bright chartreuse-colored foliage
  • Manjula Pothos - Cream, white, and green variegation
  • Pearls and Jade - Green with white and gray variegation

Light Requirements

Pothos are extremely adaptable to various light conditions, making them ideal for almost any location in your home.

  • Bright, indirect light produces the best growth and variegation
  • Can tolerate low light conditions (growth will slow)
  • Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves
  • Variegated varieties need more light to maintain their patterns

Watering

Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings. Pothos prefer to dry out slightly rather than stay constantly moist.

  • Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom
  • Empty drainage tray after 30 minutes
  • Reduce watering frequency in winter
  • Can tolerate occasional missed waterings

Humidity

Pothos adapt well to average household humidity but appreciate higher levels for optimal growth.

  • Thrives in 40-60% humidity
  • Tolerates lower humidity levels
  • Increase humidity with humidifiers or pebble trays
  • Occasional misting is beneficial

Temperature

Maintain temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Pothos are quite tolerant of temperature fluctuations.

  • Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C)
  • Keep away from cold drafts and heating vents
  • Can handle brief temperature drops

Soil

Use a well-draining, general-purpose potting mix. Pothos aren't picky about soil type as long as it drains well.

  • Standard houseplant potting soil works perfectly
  • Add perlite for extra drainage if needed
  • Can also grow in water indefinitely

Fertilizing

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Pothos are light feeders and don't require heavy fertilization.

  • Use diluted fertilizer (half strength)
  • Reduce to every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter
  • Over-fertilizing can reduce variegation

Pruning and Training

Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming too leggy.

  • Pinch or cut stems just above a node
  • Can be trained to climb on moss poles or trellises
  • Pruned cuttings can be propagated easily
  • Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves

Common Issues

Yellowing Leaves

Usually indicates overwatering or natural aging of older leaves. Check soil moisture and adjust watering schedule.

Brown Leaf Tips

Often caused by low humidity, fluoride in tap water, or underwatering. Use filtered water and increase humidity.

Leggy Growth

Insufficient light causes long stems with sparse leaves. Move to brighter location and prune to encourage bushiness.

Loss of Variegation

Too little light or over-fertilizing can cause variegated varieties to revert to solid green. Increase light exposure.

Repotting

Repot every 1-2 years or when roots become pot-bound. Pothos actually prefer to be slightly root-bound.

Air Purification

Pothos are excellent air purifiers, removing formaldehyde, xylene, and benzene from indoor air according to NASA's Clean Air Study.

Toxicity

Important: Pothos are toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause mouth irritation and digestive upset. Keep away from children and pets.

With their incredible adaptability and easy-care nature, Pothos are perfect plants for anyone looking to add lush, trailing greenery to their home!