What To Know
- If you’re looking for an easy and rewarding way to grow golden pothos, propagating it in water is an excellent option.
- If necessary, use a small pebble or weight to keep the stem upright in the water.
- Fertilize the golden pothos in water once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant known for its vibrant, variegated leaves. Its versatility extends to its ability to thrive in both soil and water. If you’re looking for an easy and rewarding way to grow golden pothos, propagating it in water is an excellent option. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to plant golden pothos in water and ensure its optimal growth.
Choosing the Right Plant Material
Select a healthy golden pothos plant with lush, undamaged leaves. Avoid plants with yellowing or brown leaves, as these may indicate underlying problems. Cut a 4-6 inch stem from the main plant, ensuring it has at least one leaf node. A leaf node is a small bump on the stem where roots can develop.
Preparing the Vessel
Choose a transparent glass or plastic container that allows you to monitor the roots’ growth. Fill the container with filtered or distilled water, leaving a few inches of space at the top. Avoid using tap water, as it may contain chlorine or other chemicals that can harm the plant.
Planting the Cutting
Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only a few top leaves. This will prevent the leaves from rotting in the water. Gently submerge the leaf node into the water, ensuring it remains submerged. Avoid submerging the leaves, as this can lead to rot.
Providing Support
If necessary, use a small pebble or weight to keep the stem upright in the water. This will prevent the stem from toppling over and potentially damaging the roots.
Providing Sunlight
Golden pothos prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Place the container in a location that receives ample light but avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Changing the Water
Regularly change the water every 7-10 days to prevent bacterial growth and keep the water fresh. Use filtered or distilled water each time.
Fertilizing
Fertilize the golden pothos in water once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label.
Monitoring Root Growth
Within a few weeks, you should start seeing roots emerging from the leaf node. The roots will gradually grow longer and more extensive.
Transplanting to Soil
Once the roots have developed sufficiently, you can transplant the golden pothos to a pot with well-draining soil. Carefully remove the plant from the water and gently spread the roots. Fill the pot with soil and tamp it down gently. Water the plant thoroughly.
Troubleshooting
- Yellowing Leaves: This can indicate overwatering or insufficient sunlight.
- Brown Leaves: This can indicate underwatering or root rot.
- Root Rot: This is caused by excessive moisture. Remove any affected roots and repot the plant in fresh water.
- Pests: Golden pothos in water can be susceptible to pests such as mealybugs and aphids. Use a mild insecticidal soap to treat infestations.
Common Questions and Answers
- Why is my golden pothos in water not growing roots?
- Ensure the leaf node is submerged and the water is fresh. Check for any signs of pests or disease.
- How long does it take for golden pothos to root in water?
- It typically takes 2-4 weeks for roots to develop.
- Can I keep golden pothos in water indefinitely?
- Yes, golden pothos can thrive in water indefinitely with proper care.
- How often should I change the water in my golden pothos?
- Change the water every 7-10 days to keep it fresh and prevent bacterial growth.
- Should I fertilize my golden pothos in water?
- Yes, fertilize once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
