If you’ve ever wanted more pothos plants without spending money, propagation is the answer!
Pothos are one of the easiest plants to multiply, and there are two main ways to do it: water or soil.
But which way is best? In this guide, we’ll put pothos propagation methods compared side-by-side so you can decide what works for you.
Quick Answer
Water method → Roots grow faster, easy for beginners, but need transplanting later.
Soil method → Roots grow slower, but stronger and ready to keep growing without transplant shock.
Here’s a quick look:
| Feature | Water Propagation | Soil Propagation |
|---|---|---|
| Rooting speed | Fast (1–3 weeks) | Slow (3–6 weeks) |
| Root strength | Weaker at first | Strong from start |
| Beginner-friendly | Very easy | A bit harder |
| Transplant needed? | Yes | No |
| Root visibility | Yes | No |
| Main risk | Rot if water isn’t changed | Rot if overwatered |
Water Propagation
How It Works
You place a pothos cutting in water and wait for roots to grow. You can see every step, which makes it fun to watch.
Pros
You can see roots forming.
Roots start faster — sometimes in just a week.
Great for beginners.
Cons
Roots adapt to water and can be delicate.
You must transplant into soil later for long-term health.
Water needs to be changed every few days to prevent bacteria.
Best Practices
Use clean scissors to cut just below a node (the bump where leaves grow).
Remove any leaves that will be underwater.
Use a clear jar so you can watch the roots.
Keep in bright, indirect light.
Change water every 3–4 days.
Soil Propagation
How It Works
You plant the cutting directly into moist potting soil and keep it warm until roots form.
Pros
Roots are strong and adapted to soil right away.
No need to transplant later.
Less stress on the plant when it’s growing.
Cons
Roots take longer to grow.
You can’t see the roots to check progress.
Overwatering can lead to rot.
Best Practices
Use light, well-draining potting mix.
Keep the soil moist, not soggy.
Place in bright, indirect light.
Cover with a plastic bag to keep humidity in.
Be patient — new leaves may take a month or more.
Side-by-Side: Which Wins?
Fastest rooting → Water
Strongest roots → Soil
Most fun to watch → Water
Best long-term success → Soil
If you want quick results, start in water. If you want the strongest plant from the start, go with soil.
Hybrid Approach (Best of Both Worlds)
Many plant lovers start cuttings in water and then move them to soil once roots are about 2–3 inches long.
Tips to make the switch easy:
Use slightly damp soil.
Keep the plant in a warm, humid spot for the first week.
Avoid bright direct sunlight right after transplanting.
Step-by-Step for Each Method
Water Method
Cut a healthy stem with at least 1–2 nodes.
Remove the bottom leaf.
Place in clean water, covering the nodes.
Change water every few days.
Move to soil when roots are 2–3 inches long.
Soil Method
Cut a healthy stem with at least 1–2 nodes.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional).
Plant in moist potting mix.
Keep warm and humid until growth appears.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using dirty scissors (spreads disease).
Leaving cuttings in water for months (weak roots).
Overwatering soil cuttings.
Not giving enough light.
FAQs
Q: Which method is faster?
A: Water — you can see roots in 1–2 weeks.
Q: Can I keep pothos in water forever?
A: Yes, but they will need nutrients and may grow more slowly.
Q: How do I avoid transplant shock?
A: Keep humidity high and soil damp when moving from water to soil.
Q: Is rooting hormone necessary?
A: Not for pothos — they root easily without it.
Conclusion
Both water and soil propagation work well for pothos.
Choose water if you’re a beginner or want to watch roots grow quickly.
Choose soil if you want stronger roots and less transplant work.
For the best of both worlds, try starting in water and moving to soil later.
Either way, you’ll soon have more beautiful pothos plants to enjoy or share!
