Without a doubt, the epipremnum aureum is one of the world’s most popular indoor houseplants. This is because this plant really has everything that you could ever ask for.
It’s low-maintenance and forgiving, and not too sensitive to occasional overwatering or underwatering. The epipremnum aureum can withstand light levels from extremely dark to spots with some direct sun which makes it versatile. It is a fast grower and you can trim it to make it bushier or let runners wrap around your whole space.
What more could you want in an indoor plant?
Want to learn more about growing epipremnum aureum? Then read on!
What Is The Epipremnum Aureum?
Epipremnum aureum, which is commonly called pothos or devil’s ivy, is a perennial climbing vine which has waxy, heart-shaped leaves that are marbled with white or yellow. It is commonly grown indoors in homes, waiting rooms, and businesses in a decorative hanging basket.
It is an epiphyte, which means it has aerial roots that hook onto tree branches as it climbs. As a native of the Solomon Islands, epipremnum aureum cannot withstand the cold and winter chill in temperate climates, but it does well indoors in pots.
How To Grow Epipremnum Aureum
If you are looking to grow your (or someone else’s) epipremnum aureum, the first step is to take a cutting. Find a healthy-looking vine that has a decent number of leaves and choose a piece that includes at least three to four leaves. The foliage will assist your brand-new plant with getting started with plenty of photosynthesis power.
Have a look at the root nodes prior to cutting them. These brown bumps on the vine produce leaves and, more importantly, roots. Including at least a few is always a good idea and guarantees your cutting will be able to root easily.
It is much easier if you clip off your cutting right after a root node, utilising a pair of clean and sharp scissors. Once you have your cuttings in hand you can now get started with the propagation process. The first step is to choose whether you would like to propagate in water or soil.
When To Plant The Epipremnum Aureum
These plants are best grown in spring or autumn. If the environment is right the plant grows more vigorously, which can increase the survival rate. It is planted between the months of April to May and between September to October.
If it is grown in summer and the temperature is far too high, no matter which method is utilised it is easy to infect diseases and pests as well as lower the survival rate. In addition, it is better not to plant it during winter as it is not cold resistant, and it is susceptible to frostbite in winter, which is also unfavourable.
Where To Plant Epipremnum Aureum
Keep the plants in a warm location. Room temperature is ideal. If it is exposed to regular drafts or colder temperatures, the plant’s growth may be affected. Put your epipremnum aureum in bright, indirect light. These plants will tolerate low light but will not grow as well and may lose some or all of the variegation in their leaves.
How To Plant Epipremnum Aureum
Purchase an epipremnum aureum seedling from a nursery or – alternatively – cut a healthy tip from a plant to utilise as a cutting. The tip for the cutting needs to be between 3 to 4 inches long, have terminal buds from this season’s growth and have at least four leaves. Cut right below a leaf joint and remove the bottom leaves.
Put the seedling or cutting into a pot that contains a well-draining soil mix of two parts loam, two parts perlite or sand as well as two parts peat moss. The pot needs to be almost twice as large as the root ball of a seedling. Make sure that you plant your cutting just deep enough for it to stand upright. Put the seedling or cutting into an area with low to bright light. Water it well.
Water when the soil is bone dry. Give the plant water more frequently if it is in bright light. Overwatering may cause its leaves to turn yellow and the stems to rot. Underwatering or dry air may cause brown patches on the leaves and brown edges. Mist foliage regularly in order to maintain humidity.
Fertilise monthly with a balanced fertiliser, meaning one that contains equal amounts by weight of nitrogen, phosphorous as well as potassium. Trim the epipremnum aureum plant’s top often to manage growth. If you trim right above a leaf, new shoots will appear, forming new stems. Wipe the leaves regularly with a soft cloth in order to remove dust.
What Is The Meaning Of Epipremnum Aureum?
The epipremnum aureum is known as a lucky plant that helps to bring its owner wealth and good fortune. So do not hesitate to buy this plant for anyone who could do with a financial windfall.
Is Epipremnum Aureum Toxic?
All parts of the epipremnum aureum contain needle-like calcium oxalate crystals which, if chewed or eaten, can cause immediate pain or a burning sensation as well as swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue and throat. The sap may cause contact dermatitis and eye irritation.
How Much Water Does Epipremnum Aureum Need?
Water the plants every five to seven days depending on light and temperature. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
What Temperature Should Cuttings Be Stored At?
Cuttings can be stored at 50-65°F however they should be put in the mist bed as soon as possible. Cuttings will take root equally well in an organic medium such as peat or an inorganic medium for example calcined clay. It will survive a wide range of environmental conditions but grows best at 70- 90°F.
Can Epipremnum Aureum Live In Water?
The most common epipremnum aureum variety, golden pothos, has golden and cream shades that make it a simple but standout houseplant. This plant is one of the simplest houseplants to propagate or grow in water.
If you are looking for a houseplant which is quite low maintenance then you should really look at epipremnum aureum. Its deep green leaves will make any décor pop.