Pothos is one of my favorite plants for water propagation. It grows quickly, adapts well to different indoor conditions, and does not require complicated care. It is also rewarding to watch as the first small roots appear and gradually develop beneath the water.

With its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, pothos looks beautiful while it grows. Golden pothos, marble queen pothos, and neon pothos can all be propagated successfully in water.

Why Pothos Is Ideal for Water Propagation

Pothos is a forgiving plant, which makes it a good choice for someone trying water propagation for the first time. A healthy cutting often begins showing signs of new roots within a few weeks, although every cutting develops at its own pace.

Pothos also adapts well to life indoors. It can tolerate a range of conditions, but it grows best with bright, indirect light. Too much direct afternoon sun may scorch the leaves or encourage algae to grow in the water.

How to Take a Pothos Cutting

Choose a healthy vine and make your cut just below a node. A node is the small raised area where a leaf or aerial root grows from the stem. New roots will develop from this area.

A cutting approximately five inches long is usually a good place to begin. Remove any lower leaves that would otherwise sit below the waterline. Submerged leaves can begin to decay and make the water cloudy. Leaves kept above the water can continue absorbing light and providing energy to the cutting while new roots form.

Fill your propagation vase about two-thirds full with fresh, room-temperature water. Hang the vase securely, and then carefully place the cutting inside. Make sure at least one healthy node remains below the water while the leaves stay above it.

Caring for Your Pothos Cutting

Place the cutting where it will receive bright, indirect light. Check the water regularly and add more whenever the level becomes noticeably low.

Replace the water if it becomes cloudy, and clean the vase periodically to prevent algae and residue from accumulating. Clean water makes it easier to see the condition of the developing roots.

Watch for small white or pale root nubs emerging from the submerged node. Healthy roots generally look firm and white, cream, or light tan. Dark, soft, or mushy roots may indicate decay.

When Is a Pothos Cutting Ready for Soil?

Once the cutting has developed several healthy roots, you can transfer it to a small pot filled with suitable potting soil. Keep the soil slightly moist while the plant adjusts to its new growing environment.

You can also allow the pothos to continue growing in water. Pothos can remain in water for an extended period with regular water changes, occasional vase cleaning, and careful attention to the condition of its roots and leaves.

If you plan to keep your pothos growing in water, read Should You Fertilize Plants While Propagating Them in Water? for guidance on when a small amount of plant food may be helpful.

Enjoy Watching Your Pothos Grow

Part of the pleasure of propagating pothos is being able to watch each stage of growth. A clear glass vase keeps the developing roots visible, while a hanging design turns the growing cutting into a decorative display for your home.

Pothos can bring greenery to a window area, wall, kitchen, or quiet corner. As the vine grows, it can be gently arranged around the handcrafted frame to create a living display.

Explore our hanging propagation vases and give your next pothos cutting a beautiful place to grow.

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