Propagating pothos plants is a rewarding and simple way to multiply my favorite foliage. As an easy-to-grow household plant, pothos thrives with little care.
When I’ve successfully rooted pothos cuttings in water or other medium such as paper towels, the next important step is to establish them in soil to continue their growth.
The rooted cuttings should only be potted after they have developed a strong network of roots. This typically occurs a couple of weeks after the initial propagation.
I make sure the roots are at least an inch or two (3-5 cm) long before making the move; this ensures that the plant is ready to handle the soil environment and will continue to grow.
Key Takeaways
- Cuttings should be potted once they have an inch or two (3-5 cm) of root growth.
- It requires about two weeks for the cuttings to grow these roots.
- Make sure the cuttings are healthy before potting them.
When To Pot Rooted Cuttings Pothos?
Pothos cuttings are ready to move to soil when the roots are just the right size, and ensuring they are healthy is crucial for a successful transition.
Usual Timeline
I usually find that, after starting propagation, pothos cuttings are ready for planting in about two weeks.
The optimal time to pot them is when their roots have grown to 1-2 inches (3-5 cm) long. Longer roots are more vulnerable and can easily fracture during the potting process.
Watch for Problems
I always examine the roots for signs of health before potting.
Healthy roots should be white and robust, while any brown spots can suggest root rot. If brown spots are present, I trim these off and give the plant time to heal, updating the water or medium (such as moss) as needed.
Soft, discolored sections of the stem could indicate stem rot, which also requires trimming and observation before proceeding.
Consider Potting Multiple Cuttings At the Same Time
For a fuller look, I like to plant 4-5 cuttings together. This approach prevents single vine syndrome and gives the plant a more lush, attractive appearance. It’s important to have all cuttings ready and healthy to ensure they grow together beautifully.
Remember to handle the roots gently during the potting process to avoid damage, and keep an eye out for any signs of rot, both on the roots and stems. With these precautions, your pothos should thrive in their new home.
Potting Rooted Cuttings
When your pothos cuttings have established roots, it’s time to consider potting them.
I recommend selecting a pot that is slightly larger than the root ball, ensuring it has adequate drainage. This step is crucial in preventing water-logged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Before placing your cutting in the pot, fill it with a well-draining soil mixture, perfect for houseplants like Epipremnum aureum. The growing medium should be rich yet lightweight to support growth and allow roots to develop easily.
Here’s how I go about it:
- Gently remove the rooted cutting from its current container or rooting medium.
- Fill the new pot about one-third full with your chosen soil.
- Place the cutting in the center, gently spreading the roots if necessary.
- Add more soil around the cutting, just until the roots are covered.
Once potted, I make sure to water the cutting to help settle the soil around the roots. After this initial watering, I keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light to encourage growth.
For more expert guidance on ensuring your freshly potted pothos thrives, consider exploring additional tips for thriving roots. Remember, the key to successful transplant lies in the balance of the right soil, proper pot sizing, and the best environmental conditions for your pothos plants.
Conclusion
After carefully nurturing pothos cuttings and watching them develop roots, the right time to pot them is when roots have grown at least 1-2 inches long. This is a clear sign they are ready for the transition to soil. This happens in about two weeks after you start the propagation.
Here’s a simple checklist to ensure success:
- Root length: Ensure roots are 1-2 inches long.
- Root health: Roots should look white and healthy.
- Stem health: Stems are not soft and have healthy color.
- Container readiness: Prepare a container with well-draining soil.
Propagating and planting a pothos plant is a rewarding experience, and with these guidelines, I am confident that even beginner gardeners can enjoy the lush, green growth of these lovely plants in their new pots.
