How to Propagate Pothos (Beginner-Friendly Step-by-Step Guide)
Pothos is one of the easiest houseplants to propagate, making it perfect for beginners. With just a pair of scissors and a container of water, you can turn one pothos plant into many!
This guide covers:
- ✓ How to take cuttings ✂️
- ✓ Rooting in water or soil 💧
- ✓ How long propagation takes ⏱️
- ✓ Growth + plant care tips 🌿
Let's get started!
Why Propagate Pothos?
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is fast-growing, hard to kill, and great for learning how plant propagation works.
Propagation lets you:
- ✓ Grow new plants for free
- ✓ Make your plant fuller
- ✓ Share cuttings with friends
- ✓ Save a struggling plant
It's one of the best beginner propagation projects.
What You'll Need
- ✂️ Clean scissors or pruning shears
- 🫙 Glass jar or small pot
- 💧 Fresh water or potting soil
- 🌱 Optional: rooting hormone
Simple + inexpensive ✨
How to Take a Pothos Cutting
Step 1 — Find a Healthy Vine 🌿
Choose a vine with at least 4–6 leaves.
Step 2 — Cut Below a Node ✂️
Cut just below a node (the small bump where leaves + roots grow). Nodes are essential — roots form here.
Step 3 — Remove Lower Leaves 🍃
Remove leaves near the node so they don't sit underwater or in soil.
Now you're ready to root!
Propagating Pothos in Water (Easiest Method) 💧
Steps:
- Place cuttings in fresh water
- Keep nodes submerged
- Place in bright, indirect light
- Change water every 5–7 days
Roots usually appear in 1–3 weeks.
- ✓ Great for beginners
- ✓ Fun to watch roots grow
When roots reach ~5 cm (2 inches), transfer to soil.
Propagating Pothos in Soil 🌱
Steps:
- Dip cut end in rooting hormone (optional)
- Plant cutting into moist potting mix
- Keep soil lightly moist
- Place in indirect light
Takes slightly longer than water, but roots transition faster since they start in soil.
When to Plant in Soil 🌿
If starting in water → transplant once roots are:
- 2–5 cm long (1–2 inches)
- White + healthy
Plant in well-draining soil. Water lightly after potting.
Common Problems (and Fixes)
⚠️Mushy Stem:
Cause: Rot due to too much water
Fix: Use fresh water; cut above healthy node
🌱No Roots Forming:
Cause: Low light or cold temps
Fix: Move to brighter spot, keep warm
🍃Leaves Turning Yellow:
Cause: Too much light, poor water
Fix: Use filtered water and indirect light
Need more help? Visit our Plant Problems & Fixes page →
How Long Does Propagation Take? ⏱️
- ⏱ Usually 2–4 weeks to root
- ⏱ 1–2 months to grow strong enough for potting
Fast + rewarding — perfect for beginners!
Best Pothos Varieties to Propagate
All pothos types propagate easily! Beginner favorites:
- ✓ Golden Pothos
- ✓ Marble Queen
- ✓ Jade Pothos
- ✓ Neon Pothos
FAQ: Pothos Propagation
No — you need a node for roots to grow.
Water is easier; soil produces stronger plants sooner.
Yes — but growth is slower and leaves smaller.
Propagating pothos is simple, fun, and perfect for beginners. With just a few cuttings, you can easily grow a fuller plant or share new vines with friends.
Give it a try — you'll be amazed how quickly new roots form!
🌱 Want more easy plant projects?
Explore our Easy Indoor Plants →
✂️ Trouble with yellow leaves?
Read our Plant Problems Guide →
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