How To Grow & Care For Jade Pothos

Jade Pothos

Jade Pothos, a stunning and resilient houseplant, is known for its heart-shaped green leaves and air-purifying properties. Part of the Araceae family, it’s a versatile plant that can adapt to various indoor environments, making it a popular choice among plant enthusiasts and interior designers alike.

With origins in the Solomon Islands, Jade Pothos brings tropical elegance to any space. Its vibrant green foliage and trailing vines create a lush appearance. This plant’s adaptability and low-maintenance care make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. It’s also known as Devil’s Ivy because it’s almost impossible to kill.

Jade Pothos has earned a reputation for its ability to tolerate a wide range of conditions, including low light and irregular watering. Moreover, it’s recognized by NASA for its air-purifying abilities, as it can filter various toxins from the air, contributing to a healthier living environment.

AttributeDetails
Common NamesJade Pothos, Devil’s Ivy, Golden Pothos
Botanical NameEpipremnum aureum ‘Jade’
FamilyAraceae
Plant TypeEvergreen Vine
Mature SizeUp to 6-10 feet in length
Sun ExposureLow to bright, indirect light
Soil TypeWell-drained, peat-based soil
Hardiness Zones10-12
Native AreaSolomon Islands

Jade Pothos Care

Caring for Jade Pothos is simple and forgiving, making it a favored plant for offices and homes. It can thrive under various lighting conditions, and while it prefers well-drained soil and regular watering, it can forgive occasional neglect.

The real secret to Jade Pothos’s care lies in understanding its preferences and needs, particularly in terms of light, water, and soil. Striking a balance between these elements can lead to a healthy and vibrant plant that grows quickly and adds beauty to any space.

Light Requirement for Jade Pothos

Jade Pothos is adaptable to a wide range of light conditions. It can tolerate low light but grows best in medium to bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sun can scorch the leaves, so placing it in a spot with filtered light is ideal.

Soil Requirements for Jade Pothos

A well-draining, peat-based potting mix is suitable for Jade Pothos. The soil should retain some moisture but allow excess water to drain to prevent root rot.

Water Requirements for Jade Pothos

Water Jade Pothos when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be cautious not to keep the soil too soggy.

Temperature and Humidity

Jade Pothos prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C). It can tolerate dry air, but higher humidity levels will encourage more robust growth.

Fertilizer

Feed Jade Pothos with a balanced, liquid houseplant fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early autumn). Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Pruning Jade Pothos

Pruning helps control the length and encourage bushier growth. Snip off longer stems and remove yellow or damaged leaves.

Propagating Jade Pothos

Propagation is easily done by taking stem cuttings with at least one healthy leaf and placing them in water or soil. Roots will develop within a few weeks.

How To Grow Jade Pothos From Seed

Growing Jade Pothos from seed is rare and not typically done by home gardeners. It’s much easier to propagate from cuttings.

Common Pests & Plant Diseases

Spider Mites

These tiny mites can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Root Rot

Caused by overwatering, it can be avoided by proper watering practices.

Common Problems With Jade Pothos

Yellow Leaves

Often caused by overwatering, adjust watering habits if this issue appears.

Leggy Vines

If vines become long without leaves, increase the light exposure.

Pro Tips

  1. If the leaves lose their variegation, move the plant to a brighter spot.
  2. Prune regularly to control growth and shape.
  3. Clean the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep them shiny.
  4. Display Jade Pothos in hanging baskets to show off its trailing vines.