How to Propagate Pothos
Pothos is one of the easiest houseplants to propagate. Here are three reliable methods — choose the one that fits your comfort level and available supplies.
Pothos is one of the easiest houseplants to propagate, making it perfect for sharing with friends or filling out a sparse pot.
Water propagation (easiest)
* Cut a vine just below a node (the small bump where a leaf meets the stem). Remove the bottom leaf so the node is exposed. Place the cutting in a jar of water with the node submerged. Change the water weekly. Roots will appear in 7–14 days. Once roots are 2–3 inches long, plant in soil.
Soil propagation
* Take the same type of cutting, dip the node in rooting hormone (optional), and plant directly in moist potting mix. Keep the soil consistently damp for the first 2 weeks while roots develop. Cover with a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity if your home is very dry.
Rooting in the same pot
* Simply pin a vine node down into the soil of the same pot using a bobby pin. The node will root while still attached to the mother plant. Once rooted, you can snip the connection and have a fuller-looking plant.
How many cuttings
* For a full new plant, use 3–5 cuttings in one pot. Single cuttings will eventually fill out but take longer to look lush.
Propagation Tips
- ✓ Always use clean, sterilized tools to prevent infection
- ✓ Cuttings need bright indirect light — never direct sun
- ✓ Change propagation water every 5–7 days to prevent bacteria
- ✓ Be patient — rooting takes 2–6 weeks depending on the method
- ✓ Spring and summer are the best seasons for propagation