The Pothos (botanical name *Epipremnum aureum*) is a total classic in the world of houseplants, and for good reason! Whether you let it trail gracefully from a hanging basket or train it to climb up a moss pole, it’s a stunning addition to any room. Plus, because it’s so incredibly low-maintenance, it’s the perfect “set it and forget it” plant for both your home and your office.
The Perfect Spot
Pothos love a warm, bright environment. To keep yours happy, find a location that offers:
- Plenty of bright, indirect light (avoid that harsh direct sun in a south-facing window!)
- Temperatures right around 70°F (20°C)
While these plants are pretty tough and can handle lower light levels, keep in mind that variegated varieties might lose those beautiful splashes of color and turn solid green if they’re stuck in a dark corner.
If you want your Pothos to climb rather than trail, make sure to provide a climbing aid like a trellis or a moss pole.
Care Tips
Watering
When it comes to watering, *Epipremnum aureum* actually prefers being a little too dry over being too wet. “Soggy feet” can lead to root rot, which is the fastest way to lose your plant. To keep it thriving, you should water:
- Regularly
- Moderately
The golden rule is to let the top inch or two of soil dry out completely between waterings. If you’re ever unsure if it needs a drink, try bottom-watering. Just put some water in the saucer and let the plant soak it up; once it stops drinking, you know it’s had its fill!
Fertilizing
While a Pothos will survive without extra food, it won’t grow nearly as fast or lush. For the best results, you should fertilize your plant:
- From March through October
- Every two to four weeks
A standard liquid houseplant fertilizer works great, or you can use slow-release spikes if you prefer a “hands-off” approach.
Pruning
You don’t actually *have* to prune a Pothos for its health—most people love those long, dramatic vines! However, if it starts taking over your living room, you can easily trim the stems back to your desired length. The best time for pruning is in the spring, especially if you want to use those cuttings to propagate new baby plants.
Repotting
Nobody likes shoes that are too tight, and your Pothos is no different. You’ll want to repot your plant every so often to give the roots room to breathe. If you see roots poking out of the drainage holes, it’s definitely time for an upgrade! Since moving to a new pot (whether you use soil or hydroponics) can be a bit stressful for the plant, it’s best to do this in the spring.
Pests
Pests aren’t usually a big issue for Pothos, but keep an eye out for the usual suspects like spider mites or mealybugs. If you catch them early, they’re usually very easy to treat!
