Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is one of the easiest plants to propagate, and propagating it in soil is an excellent way to encourage strong root growth right from the start. This method ensures your new pothos cutting grows directly in its permanent environment, reducing the need for transplantation later.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned plant lover, this detailed guide will walk you through each step of propagating pothos in soil, from gathering materials to aftercare.
What You Need to Propagate Pothos in Soil
Before starting, make sure you have the following items on hand:
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Healthy pothos vine (look for a vine with healthy leaves and a few nodes)
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Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears (to avoid infection)
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Rooting hormone (optional but helpful for faster rooting)
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Well-draining potting mix (cactus or succulent mix works well)
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Small nursery pot with drainage holes (prevents waterlogging)
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Plastic bag or humidity dome (to maintain moisture levels)
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Filtered or distilled water (for the cuttings and soil)
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Bright, indirect light (ensure the cutting stays warm)
Tip: Always ensure your tools are clean to avoid introducing pathogens that could harm your pothos.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Soil Propagation
Step 1: Select the Right Vine
Start by choosing a healthy pothos vine with several leaves. Look for a vine that has at least one node (the bump where roots grow) — this is essential because roots will only grow from nodes.
Step 2: Make the Cut
Using your sharp scissors, cut a 4–6 inch section of the vine just below a node. Make sure that the cutting has:
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At least one node
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One or two healthy leaves attached
Avoid cutting too far from the node, as the roots need to grow from it.
Important: Always cut just below a node. A cutting without a node won’t root.
Step 3: Remove Lower Leaves
Strip off the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting so that they don’t sit in the soil. This step prevents the leaves from rotting and ensures that only the node is buried in the soil.
Step 4: Apply Rooting Hormone (Optional)
This step is optional, but applying rooting hormone to the cut end can encourage faster root growth and help prevent rot. Simply dip the bottom of the cutting in the hormone powder, making sure it covers the node.
Tip: Rooting hormone isn’t necessary for pothos propagation, but it can give a boost, especially in colder climates.
Step 5: Plant in Soil
Fill a small pot with well-draining potting soil (a cactus or succulent mix is ideal). Insert the cutting into the soil about 1-2 inches deep, ensuring that the node is fully buried.
Gently press the soil around the cutting to ensure good contact. This helps the node settle in the soil, making it easier for roots to take hold.
Tip: Make sure the cutting is in the center of the pot. You want the node to remain fully submerged in the soil, with the leaves above the soil line.
Step 6: Create a Humid Environment
To simulate the warm, humid conditions pothos cuttings love, cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or place it inside a humidity dome. This will help retain moisture and encourage root growth.
Ensure the plastic isn’t touching the leaves. You can use toothpicks or sticks to prop it up slightly if needed.
Tip: You can also use a mini greenhouse for the best results, as it will trap more moisture and maintain a more consistent temperature.
Step 7: Provide Light & Temperature
Place the cutting in a spot with bright, indirect light — avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. The ideal temperature for rooting pothos is between 18–24°C (65–75°F). Make sure the room is warm and not too drafty.
Tip: If you’re propagating during colder months, keep the cuttings in a warm, well-lit room or use a grow light.
Step 8: Water Sparingly
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Lightly mist the soil every couple of days, or water when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Tip: If you notice any condensation inside the plastic bag, it means the humidity is high enough. If not, increase the humidity by misting more frequently.
Step 9: Monitor Root Growth
After 3–4 weeks, gently tug on the cutting. If you feel resistance, that means roots are developing! You can remove the plastic cover and start caring for the cutting like a mature pothos plant.
Aftercare for Newly Rooted Pothos
Once your pothos cutting has rooted, you can begin caring for it as you would any other pothos plant. Here are some tips to help it thrive:
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Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as pothos are prone to root rot.
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Light: Keep your pothos in bright, indirect light. Pothos can tolerate lower light levels, but they grow best with consistent indirect sunlight.
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Repotting: As your pothos grows, you’ll likely need to repot it into a larger container once the roots fill the current pot. Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.
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Fertilizing: Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter, as growth slows down.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Cutting above the node | Without a node, the cutting won’t root. |
| Too much water | Overwatering leads to root rot and fungal issues. |
| Using heavy soil | Heavy, waterlogged soil can suffocate the roots and cause rot. |
| Not maintaining humidity | Pothos cuttings need moisture to root, and a dry environment can slow or stop root growth. |
| Direct sunlight | The sun can burn the leaves or dry out the cutting too quickly. |
FAQs About Propagating Pothos in Soil
How long does it take for pothos to propagate in soil?
It typically takes 3–4 weeks for roots to develop in soil, but it may take a bit longer depending on environmental conditions.
Do I need to use rooting hormone for pothos propagation in soil?
No, rooting hormone is optional. While it can speed up the process, pothos roots easily on its own. If you’re propagating in warm conditions, it might not be necessary.
Can pothos propagate in water and soil?
Yes, pothos can be propagated both in water and soil. Water propagation is faster but requires a transfer to soil later. Soil propagation eliminates the need for this step.
Should I mist the cutting?
Yes, keep the soil moist, but don’t overwater. Misting is especially important if you’ve created a humid environment with a plastic bag or humidity dome.
Conclusion
Soil propagation is a straightforward and rewarding method for growing new pothos plants. By following these simple steps, you can create beautiful, lush pothos vines with a minimal investment of time and effort. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just getting started, this method ensures your pothos grows strong and healthy right from the start.
Happy propagating!
