A popular, easy-to-grow indoor plant, Pothos is often called devil's ivy or variegated
philodendron. Pothos is a common name, too. Botanically it is Epipremnum. The reason for all the confusion is that until 1956 it had never been seen in flower. Botanists classify all plants on the basis of their flowers or other reproductive parts. Pothos matures at 40 feet or taller in its native southeast Asian jungles, but in pots seldom exceeds 6 feet. In effect, even the large, old tangle of pothos vine your grandmother had in her parlor was a mere baby at that height. The plant is most attractive as an infant in a hanging basket or taking its first steps at climbing a pole. The glossy-leaved plants are available in solid green or variegated with either white, 'Marble Queen', or yellow and lighter green, 'Tricolor'. A very close relative, Scindapsis pictus, is often called "pothos vine". It has satiny grey-green leaves with silver splotches. Unfortunately, it is not often offered.
Pothos are tough, adaptable plants. Their climbing/trailing habit makes them extremely
decorative and useful in a variety of settings, and their variegated forms add interest not available with true philodendron. Since Pothos aren't very demanding, they set the standard for tolerance of neglect. This makes them one of the best plants for public places and new indoor gardeners.
Tips for Growing Pothos What are the light requirements for pothos? The green variety can take low light, but the variegated ones prefer medium light. The variegated types will live in lower light, but their variegation may fade. Pothos can take bright light if necessary, but not direct sun- The leaves will scorch.
How much water do they need? Pothos plants prefer to dry out between waterings. Check the soil with your finger. If it is dry about an inch down, it is time to water.
Do they have any special temperature requirements? Pothos are comfortable in the same temperature range indoors as most people are. Just like us, they get a bit chilly below 60º and warm above 75º. During periods of time when the temperatures are higher than 75º, be sure to check soil moisture and try to raise the humidity.
Do Pothos need much humidity? They are not fussy about it, but they do not like it as dry as it usually is in our homes in winter. Mist them several times a week or keep the pot sitting on a humidity tray.
How much fertilizer do they require? Since they don't bloom and they grow slowly, pothos should be fed monthly with a liquid or water soluble plant food like Bachman's Excel Gro™ at half the recommended rate.
What type of soil do they prefer? Pothos prefer loam-based Bachman's Exceloam.
When should I repot my pothos? They seldom need repotting and the roots dislike disturbance. Repotting every other spring is enough. Be sure the drainage is good.
Will they need any grooming? Dust can build up on pothos leaves and should be removed. An occasional wipe with vegetable oil will help the leaves shine. Avoid commercial leafshine product.
How are they propagated? Pothos are propagated by tip cuttings. They can even be rooted and grown in water, even though the plant, when potted, cannot stand to have its roots waterlogged.
Troubleshooting Problems with Pothos My plant grows so slowly and has a long distance between leaves. What can I do? The plant needs fertilizer and it may not be getting enough light.
What makes rusty marks on the leaves? Leafshine products can cause these marks. If the damaged leaves are too unattractive, clip them off where they join the stem.
Why are the leaves yellowing and looking rough? The plant may have spider mites. If you can, stand the pot in the tub and spray the leaves, especially on the underside, with tepid water to wash off as many mites as possible. Then spray with insecticidal soap, paying special attention to the undersides again. Try to raise the humidity in the plant's environment: mites prefer it hot and dry.
What are the white, wooly patches on the stems and leaves? Those are mealy bugs. If there are only a few, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. If there are many, spray the plant with insecticidal soap. You will still need to wipe off as many as you can to get rid of their remains. If the plant has a sticky residue on the leaves from the mealy bugs, give it a shower or wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove the mess. Be sure to follow up with a repeat treatment.
Why are my plant's leaves and stems limp and drying up? Several things can cause these symptoms. Usually this is an indication that the environment is too hot and the air too dry. Try to move it to a cooler location and increase misting or place the plant on a humidity tray. These symptoms may also indicate the plant is being kept too wet. Water only if the plant is truly dry. They don't like wet roots. Be sure to check for spider mites.
What can I do to stop my variegated pothos from turning plain green? Move it to a spot with higher light, being sure to avoid the direct afternoon sun.
The leaves have become strangely pale very quickly. What is wrong? The plant is receiving too much light too suddenly and is sunburned. Move it to a shadier location. Damaged leaves may need to be removed
. There are brown spots and black edges on some of the leaves. What is causing this? The plant is being kept too wet. Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings. Always stick your finger in the soil to see if it needs water, don't just water it because it is the day you always do or the surface is dry.
My pothos has collapsed. I watered it more and it hasn't helped. What can I do? The plant is probably waterlogged or has become too cold. If the temperature is below 60ºF. move it to a warmer spot. If it is too wet, check to see if the pot is standing in water. Always empty the saucer after you water the plant.
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