Growing pothos (Epipremnum aureum) in a jar with water is a simple and attractive way to enjoy this hardy houseplant. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Select a Pothos Cutting
- Choose a healthy pothos vine with at least 4-6 leaves.
- Look for a cutting with aerial roots or nodes (the small brown bumps on the stem).
Step 2: Prepare the Cutting
- Using clean scissors or a knife, cut a 4-6 inch section of the vine just below a node.
- Remove the lower leaves to expose 1-2 nodes, ensuring they will be submerged in water.
Step 3: Choose a Jar and Water
- Select a clean jar or container. Glass is ideal as it allows you to see the roots develop.
- Fill the jar with room temperature water, preferably filtered or distilled to avoid chlorine and other chemicals that can affect root growth.
Step 4: Place the Cutting in the Jar
- Insert the cutting into the jar, ensuring the nodes are submerged in water.
- The remaining leaves should be above the water to prevent rotting.
Step 5: Find the Right Spot
- Place the jar in a location with indirect sunlight. Pothos do not require direct sunlight and can thrive in low-light conditions.
- Avoid placing the jar in direct sunlight as it can heat the water and harm the cutting.
Step 6: Maintenance
- Change the water every week or when it becomes cloudy to prevent bacterial growth.
- You can add a drop of liquid fertilizer to the water every 4-6 weeks to provide nutrients.
Step 7: Root Development
- Roots should start to appear from the nodes in about 2-4 weeks.
- Once the roots are several inches long, you can continue to grow the pothos in water or transplant it to soil if desired.
Step 8: Transplanting (Optional)
- If you decide to plant your pothos in soil, choose a pot with drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.
- Plant the rooted cutting in the potting mix and water it thoroughly.
Step 9: Long-Term Care
- Whether you keep your pothos in water or soil, continue to provide indirect light and consistent moisture.
- Trim the vines as needed to maintain the desired shape and size.
By following these steps, you can successfully grow a pothos plant in a jar, adding a touch of greenery to your space with minimal effort.
