Quick Facts

• Common name: Golden pothos, Devil's ivy
• Scientific name: Epipremnum aureum
• Light: Bright, indirect to low light
• Water: Allow top 1–2 inches of soil to dry between waterings
• Soil: Well-draining, airy potting mix
• Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C)
• Humidity: Average home humidity; benefits from higher humidity

Light Requirements

Golden pothos does best in bright, indirect light where variegation is most pronounced. It tolerates low light but growth will slow and variegation can fade. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves.

Watering

Water golden pothos when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Overwatering leads to root rot; underwatering causes drooping and brown leaf tips. Use a pot with drainage and empty saucers after watering.

Soil and Potting

Use a well-draining potting mix: aster, peat-free mixes with perlite or orchid bark work well. A standard indoor potting soil amended with perlite (10–20%) provides good aeration. Choose a pot with drainage holes.

Temperature and Humidity

Golden pothos prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Protect from drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Average home humidity is usually sufficient, but higher humidity encourages fuller growth and reduces browning tips.

Fertilizing

Feed golden pothos with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.

Pruning and Training

Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove yellow or damaged leaves. Cut just above a node. Train vines on a moss pole or trellis, or allow them to trail from hanging baskets. Regular trimming keeps the plant compact and vigorous.

Propagation

Golden pothos is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Steps:

1. Cut a 4–6 inch stem with at least 3 nodes and a few leaves.
2. Place cuttings in water or directly into moist potting mix. Change water weekly if rooting in water.
3. Roots typically appear in 2–4 weeks. Transplant to potting mix once roots are a few inches long.

Common Pests and Problems

• Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale: wipe leaves with soapy water or use insecticidal soap/ neem oil.
• Yellowing leaves: often overwatering or poor drainage.
• Brown leaf tips: low humidity, salt buildup, or irregular watering.
• Leggy growth: insufficient light—move to brighter, indirect light and prune to encourage branching.

Repotting

Repot golden pothos every 1–2 years or when root-bound. Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter. Refresh potting mix and check roots; trim circling roots if necessary.

Toxicity

Golden pothos is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Symptoms may include oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting.

Styling and Uses

Golden pothos is versatile: hang it in baskets, let vines trail from shelves, or grow it up supports. Varieties include 'Golden,' 'Marble Queen,' and 'Neon'—each offers different variegation and color intensity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my golden pothos leaves turning yellow?

Usually overwatering or poor drainage. Check soil moisture, reduce watering frequency, and ensure the pot drains well.

How much light does a golden pothos need to keep variegation?

Bright, indirect light helps maintain variegation. In low light, the plant will survive but may revert to greener, less variegated leaves.

Can golden pothos grow in water only?

Yes—golden pothos roots easily in water and can grow long-term that way, though nutrient supplementation and occasional cleaning are needed to prevent stagnation.

Care Checklist

• Light: Bright, indirect light for best variegation.
• Water: Let top 1–2 inches dry; avoid standing water.
• Soil: Well-draining mix with aeration.
• Fertilizer: Half-strength every 4–6 weeks in growing season.
• Prune: Trim to control size and encourage fullness.