Growing Devil’s Ivy (Pothos) Plants Indoors

Last Updated on April 10, 2024 by Real Men Sow

Pothos (Epipremnum, or Scindapsus), not only has beautiful, heart-shaped leaves that trail or climb, but it is also one of the easiest houseplants you can grow. This is because it can tolerate all conditions and neglect. Because it can grow in low light levels, it’s almost impossible to kill, receiving the name, devil’s ivy. Pothos can be hung from a shelf or basket, or up wires or on a pole.

Why Are Devil’s Ivy Plants Useful

Devil’s Ivy or also known as Pothos can also clean the air. In the landmark 1989 NASA study on air purifying plants it was named as the leading scientist’s favorite purifier. However, pothos can be toxic to animals and humans if it is ingested. Keep your pets and children away from pothos. Pothos sap can cause irritation to the eyes and skin so be careful when handling it.

How To Grow Devil’s Ivy Plant

Pothos can be grown in any location, shaded or bright. Just keep them out of direct sunlight. To get the best results, water the compost when it is dry and then feed the plants once a month in spring or summer.

Where To Grow Devil’s Ivy

Pothos is happy in rooms with temperatures between 10-24 degrees Celsius. Pothos thrives in indirect, bright light. However, it can also tolerate light and shade. Deep shade could cause your pothos to lose its variegation.

Pothos can be trained to a moss pole or coir pole and look great hanging from a shelf, mantelpiece or hanging from a basket.

How To Plant A Pothos

Pothos can be planted in either soil-based compost or houseplant compost in a pot that fits the root ball. Plant pothos to climb, tie stems to a moss pole, or use twine or house plant ties to train them up wires.

Caring For Devil’s Ivy Plant

Allow the compost to dry between waterings from spring through autumn – pothos can withstand drought and not need too much water. Winter: Water sparingly.

In spring and summer, feed your houseplants monthly with plant food. Every couple of years, repot into a slightly larger container.

If the stems are too long or straggly, cut them back. And if they have become clogged with dust, wipe them off. This will keep their leaves looking clean and help them breathe.

How To Propagate Devil’s Ivy (Pothos)

Pothos can be easily propagated from cuttings. Cut off any stem with a node or lump on it and place it in water. Once roots are formed, place the cutting in a small container and water well.

Problems When Growing Devil’s Ivy

Your pothos plant may need watering if it looks flat or lacks luster. It will be more lively if you give it a good soak. If you notice yellow or withered leaves, it is likely that the plant has been underwatered. To revive the plant, water gently for a few days.

The appearance of wilted leaves could indicate overwatering or underwatering. Make sure to review your care plan and adjust accordingly. Trim your plant if it looks sluggish or has sparse leaves. because this will encourage bushiness. The trimmings can be used to make cuttings.

Variegation loss means that your plant is too shaded and, therefore, shall be put it to a brighter spot. It is likely that it is getting too much sunlight. Move it to a more shaded area.

Advice On Buying Pothos

  • Pothos can tolerate low light levels, but may lose their variegation if they are in deep shade.
  • You can use them to climb or trail and they can reach up to 2m in height so make sure you have enough space. You will need support if you plan to use it as a climber, such as a moss pole or coir pole.
  • Pothos can be found in many garden centers. However, for the best selection of pothos, you should buy from a specialist retailer or online.
  • Make sure the pothos is healthy with healthy leaves, leaf-tips and no signs or pests
Real Men Sow
Real Men Sow

Hello, I’m Pete and I’m currently based in the west of Scotland, in a small place called Rosneath, where I’m exploring my garden adventures. I personally started gardening around 6 years ago and initially, I started out by growing my favorite fruits and berries, such as strawberries, Raspberries & Gooseberries. Since then I’ve added a lot of vegetables and working closely with my neighbor, it’s been a lot of fun.