Propagating pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a straightforward and rewarding process. Pothos plants can be propagated in water or directly in soil. Here’s a step-by-step guide for both methods:

Water Propagation:

1. Select a Healthy Parent Plant:
   • Choose a healthy and well-established pothos plant with long vines.
2. Prepare Cutting:
   • Take a cutting with at least 4-6 inches of stem. Ensure the cutting has a few leaves.
3. Remove Excess Leaves:
   • Trim any excess leaves from the bottom of the cutting. Leave a few leaves at the top.
4. Place in Water:
   • Place the cutting in a jar or vase with enough water to submerge the nodes (where leaves are attached to the stem). Change the water every few days to keep it clean.
5. Root Development:
   • Roots will start to grow from the nodes after a few weeks. Once the roots are a few inches long, the cutting is ready for planting.
6. Planting in Soil:
   • Transfer the cutting with developed roots into a pot with well-draining potting mix. Plant it at the same depth it was in the water.

Soil Propagation:

1. Select a Healthy Parent Plant:
   • Choose a healthy pothos plant with well-established vines.
2. Prepare Cutting:
   • Take a cutting with at least 4-6 inches of stem. Ensure the cutting has a few leaves.
3. Remove Excess Leaves:
   • Trim any excess leaves from the bottom of the cutting, leaving a few leaves at the top.
4. Plant in Soil:
   • Plant the cutting directly into a small pot with well-draining potting mix. Make a hole in the soil using a pencil or stick and insert the cutting. Press the soil around the cutting to secure it.
5. Provide Adequate Moisture:
   • Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
6. Root Development:
   • Roots will develop over the next few weeks. You can gently tug on the cutting after a few weeks to feel for resistance, indicating root development.
7. Transplanting:
   • Once the cutting has established a good root system, you can transplant it into a larger pot with your preferred potting mix.

General Tips:

• Light Conditions:
  • Pothos is adaptable to various light conditions, but bright, indirect light is ideal for both parent and propagated plants.
• Temperature:
  • Keep the pothos cutting in a warm environment, as they prefer temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C).
• Patience:
  • Propagation takes time. Be patient, and you’ll see roots and new growth emerging.

By following these steps, you can successfully propagate pothos and enjoy the benefits of having new plants from your existing ones.