Pothos is the easiest plant to propagate. Learn exactly where to cut, how to root in water, and when to pot up for a thriving new plant.
Why Pothos Is the Perfect First Plant to Propagate
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is arguably the easiest plant to propagate. It roots quickly, forgives mistakes, and grows vigorously. If you're new to propagation, pothos is where you should start.
What You'll Need
- A healthy pothos plant
- Clean, sharp scissors
- Roots Down Propagation Gel
- A glass jar or propagation station
- Roots Down Root Booster
- Room-temperature water
Identifying Nodes on a Pothos Vine
Nodes are the small bumps along the vine where leaves and aerial roots emerge. They're the key to propagation — roots will only grow from nodes.
Look for:
- Slightly swollen areas along the stem
- Small brown nubs (aerial root starts)
- Points where leaves attach to the vine
Step-by-Step: Propagating Pothos
Step 1: Select Your Vine
Choose a healthy vine that's at least 4-6 inches long. Look for one with 3-4 nodes and several healthy leaves. Avoid vines with yellowing leaves or signs of pest damage.
Step 2: Make the Cut
Cut the vine just below a node at a 45-degree angle. A sharp, clean cut prevents crushing the stem tissue, which can lead to rot.
Step 3: Divide Into Sections (Optional)
If you took a long vine, you can divide it into multiple cuttings. Each cutting should have at least one node and one leaf:
- Cut between nodes, leaving each section with 1-2 leaves
- Remove the leaf at the bottom node — that's where it'll sit in water
- Keep 1-2 leaves at the top
Step 4: Apply Rooting Gel
Dip the cut end of each cutting into Roots Down Propagation Gel. The gel's natural auxins will speed up root development significantly.
Step 5: Place in Water
Fill a clean glass jar with room-temperature water. Submerge the bottom node (where you removed the leaf). Make sure no remaining leaves touch the water.
Step 6: Maintain and Wait
- Location: Bright, indirect light
- Water changes: Every 3-5 days
- Misting: Spray leaves with plain water every 2-3 days
- Temperature: 70-80°F (21-27°C) is ideal
Pothos typically roots in 7-14 days. You'll see small white roots emerging from the nodes.
When to Pot Up
Wait until roots are 1-2 inches long before transplanting to soil. This usually takes 2-3 weeks.
How to Pot:
- Use a well-draining potting mix
- Plant the rooted cutting, burying the nodes
- Water thoroughly and keep soil consistently moist for 2 weeks
- Gradually transition to normal watering
Growing Pothos in Water Permanently
Pothos can actually live in water indefinitely! If you prefer the look:
- Change water weekly
- Add a few drops of Mother's Mist monthly for nutrient support
- Keep in bright, indirect light
Troubleshooting Pothos Propagation
The cutting is rotting
The water wasn't changed often enough, or a leaf was submerged. Remove the rotting portion and start fresh with clean water.
Roots aren't growing after 2 weeks
Ensure the cutting has a node in the water and the temperature is warm enough. Apply fresh Roots Down Propagation Gel to the cut end.
Leaves are yellowing
Too much direct light or not enough nutrients. Move to indirect light and mist with plain water.
Pro Tips
- Propagate multiple cuttings in one jar for a fuller eventual plant
- Mix varieties — Golden, Marble Queen, and Neon pothos can all be propagated the same way
- Take cuttings in spring or summer for fastest rooting
- Keep cuttings away from drafts — Temperature fluctuations slow rooting
Ready to Multiply Your Pothos?
Grab your Roots Down Propagation Gel and start propagating. For more techniques, see our guides on water propagation and propagating philodendron.