A genuinely low-maintenance starter plant; err on the side of underwatering while learning its rhythm.
Care
One of the most tolerant houseplants for dimmer spots, though variegation fades in low light.
Allow compost to dry out between waterings; very forgiving of missed waterings.
Peat-free, general houseplant compost with good drainage.
Trim trailing stems to control length and encourage bushier growth; cuttings root very easily in water.
A weak balanced feed monthly while growing. It tolerates neglect better than most, but an unfed plant in old compost produces progressively smaller leaves down the vine.
Cuttings of two or three nodes root in a glass of water within weeks, then pot several together for a full plant. Variegated forms keep their marking best from a piece that is already well variegated.
Month by month
Months change with the climate: in southern Italy tomatoes go out two months earlier than in England.
- MarchRepot every 2 years or when rootbound. how ›
- AprilMonthly liquid feed through the growing season. how ›
- JuneTake cuttings to propagate or refresh a leggy plant. how ›
Months based on climate: UK. Your choice stays on this device.
- MarchRepot every 2 years or when rootbound. how ›
- AprilMonthly liquid feed through the growing season. how ›
- JuneTake cuttings to propagate or refresh a leggy plant. how ›
Months based on climate: Northern Italy. Your choice stays on this device.
Common problems
How to spot it. Soft, blackened stems.
What to do. The main risk for an otherwise very easy plant — let compost dry more.
How to spot it. From too much direct sun.
What to do. Move to indirect light.
Questions
Pothos: is it hardy?
H1b: Tender, needs above 10°C. It survives above 10 °C.
Can it grow in a pot?
One of the easiest and most forgiving houseplants for beginners.
Pothos: when do you prune it?
Trim trailing stems to control length and encourage bushier growth; cuttings root very easily in water.
When do you feed it?
A weak balanced feed monthly while growing. It tolerates neglect better than most, but an unfed plant in old compost produces progressively smaller leaves down the vine. Feeding months, UK: April–September.