Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is one of the most beginner-friendly houseplants, loved for its trailing vines and easy care. If you want to multiply your pothos or share it with friends, propagation is a simple and rewarding process. In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to propagate pothos, whether you’re using water or soil, and get tips for success at every stage.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you start, gather these essentials:
- Healthy pothos plant
- Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
- Glass jar or vase (for water propagation)
- Small pot with drainage holes (for soil propagation)
- Fresh potting mix (if propagating in soil)
- Optional: Rooting hormone
- Clean water
Propagating in Water vs. Soil
Water Propagation
Water propagation is the most popular method for beginners. Cut a healthy vine just below a node (the small bump where leaves and roots grow), remove the lower leaves, and place the cutting in a jar of water. Make sure at least one node is submerged. Place the jar in bright, indirect light and change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
Soil Propagation
Soil propagation is also easy and helps your cuttings adjust to life in a pot right away. Prepare a small pot with moist, well-draining potting mix. Dip the cut end of your pothos cutting in rooting hormone (optional), then plant it in the soil, ensuring at least one node is buried. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, and place the pot in bright, indirect light.
Timeline for Root Growth
- Week 1–2: Small roots begin to emerge from the nodes.
- Week 3–4: Roots should be 1–2 inches long and ready for transplanting if propagated in water.
- Week 4+: New leaves may appear, and your cutting will start to look like a mini plant!
Rooting times can vary depending on temperature, light, and the health of your cutting, so be patient and keep an eye on progress.
Transplanting Tips
Once your water-propagated cuttings have roots at least 1–2 inches long, it’s time to move them to soil. Use a small pot with drainage holes and fill it with fresh potting mix. Make a hole in the soil, gently place the rooted cutting inside, and cover the roots. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist for the first couple of weeks as your pothos adjusts.
Once your Pothos starts growing, you’ll want to move it to the right pot — check out our guide on best pots for indoor plants.
For soil-propagated cuttings, simply continue caring for them as you would a mature pothos—bright, indirect light and regular watering when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Product Recommendations
1. Mkono Plant Propagation Stations
A stylish glass vase set perfect for propagating pothos cuttings in water. The wooden stand adds a decorative touch to your windowsill or desk.
🛒 Buy on Amazon2. Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix
A high-quality, well-draining potting mix ideal for transplanting your rooted pothos cuttings into soil.
👉 See on AmazonFAQs
Q: Can I propagate pothos from just a leaf?
A: No, you need a node (the small bump on the vine) for roots to grow. A leaf alone won’t develop roots.
Q: How long does it take for pothos cuttings to root?
A: Most cuttings develop roots within 2–4 weeks, but it can vary depending on conditions.
Q: Why are my pothos cuttings not rooting?
A: Make sure you have a healthy node submerged in water or soil, and provide bright, indirect light. Change the water regularly if propagating in water.
Propagating pothos is a fun and easy way to grow your plant collection and share greenery with friends. With a little patience and the right care, you’ll have thriving new plants in no time!