How to grow Pothos

Epipremnum aureum · Golden pothos, Devil's ivy

A trailing or climbing vine with glossy, heart-shaped leaves splashed with yellow or cream; one of the easiest houseplants, it survives long periods in low light.

Quick facts

Type	Houseplant
Family	Araceae
Light	Partial shade
Frost	does not tolerate frost
Soil for sowing	from 15 °C
Where it grows	At home

When to plant

Sow straight into the bed after your last spring frost, once the soil has warmed.

Frost dates · When to plant

Care

At home

Stage	Watering	Temperature	Feeding
Growth	every 7 days	18…30 °C	balanced (NPK), 14 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 44 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 74 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 104 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 134 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 164 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 194 days into the stage
Winter rest	every 14 days	15…30 °C	—

Growing notes

Light

Bright, indirect light, such as an east- or west-facing window; keep it out of direct summer sun, which scorches the leaves. In too little light the leaves lose their variegation.

Soil

Open, moisture-retentive but well-drained, slightly acidic compost, for example three parts ericaceous compost, one part grit and one part orchid bark; a general houseplant compost also works.

Care

Water only when the compost is approaching dryness, ideally with rainwater or filtered water, and never leave the pot standing in water, as wet compost rots the roots. Feed with a general houseplant fertiliser once a month from April to October. Cut straggly stems back to just above a leaf to make the plant bushier; the cut tips root easily in a glass of water. Toxic to cats and dogs and irritating to skin, so wear gloves when pruning.

Pests and diseases of Pothos

Sources

Figures checked against these sources.