Growing Pothos in water is a popular and fun way to care for this versatile houseplant.
It’s possible to have Pothos live permanently in water with a few simple steps. This method is known as water propagation or hydroponic pothos. And after reading this, check out our Complete Guide on Pothos (including photos and other varieties).
In this article, I will guide you through the process of growing Pothos in water at home, from making cuttings to providing the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
Steps to Growing Pothos in Water
Growing Pothos in water is a simple and rewarding process. By following a few easy steps, you can enjoy the beauty of water-rooted Pothos in your home. Here are the key steps to successfully grow Pothos in water:
- Make your cuttings: Start by taking fresh cuttings from a healthy Pothos plant. Each cutting should have at least one node, which is where the roots will develop. Cut just below the node to ensure successful root formation.
- Root them in water: Fill a glass or watertight container with fresh water. Place the cuttings in the container, ensuring that the nodes are submerged in the water. You can use decorative elements like pebbles or figurines to add visual appeal to the container.
- Supply nutrients: While Pothos can grow in plain water, providing a nutrient solution will promote faster and healthier growth. Use a water-soluble fertilizer, such as Dyna-Gro Grow, and add a teaspoon of it to a gallon of water. Replace the water in the container with this nutrient solution and top it off as needed.
Remember to place the container in a location with bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
Additional Water Propagation Tips
To ensure successful water propagation, here are some additional tips:
- Change the water every two to three weeks to prevent the buildup of algae and keep it fresh for the roots.
- Regularly monitor the nutrient solution level and top it off as needed. The roots need a constant supply of nutrients for healthy growth.
- Clean the container periodically to remove any algae or hard water buildup.
- Observe the root growth as the cuttings develop into mature plants. It’s a fascinating process that you can enjoy with water-rooted Pothos.
Choosing the Right Container for Water Propagation

When it comes to growing Pothos in water, selecting the right container is essential for the success of your hydroponic Pothos. While a glass container is a popular choice as it allows you to observe the root growth, any watertight container will work just fine. The important thing is to ensure that the container is appropriate for the size of the cutting and has enough space for the roots to grow.
If you opt for a glass container, the transparency adds an aesthetic touch, making it visually appealing. You can also get creative by adding decorative elements like pebbles or figurines to enhance the overall look of your hydroponic Pothos setup.
Place the container in a location with bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
This will provide the necessary light energy for photosynthesis and ensure that your Pothos thrives in its hydroponic environment.
- Select a watertight container appropriate for the cutting size and root growth.
- A glass container allows you to observe root growth and adds aesthetic appeal.
- Add decorative elements like pebbles or figurines to enhance the visual appeal.
- Place the container in a location with bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
Caring for Pothos Plants: Indoor Plant Care Tips
When it comes to caring for Pothos plants growing in water, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Providing the right nutrients is crucial for healthy growth and vibrant foliage. To ensure optimal nutrition, it’s recommended to use a water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for indoor plants. I personally recommend Dyna-Gro Grow, which provides the necessary macro and micro nutrients for water-rooted Pothos.
To use Dyna-Gro Grow, simply add a teaspoon of the fertilizer to a gallon of water and use this solution to fill your container. The fertilizer should be added at regular intervals to maintain proper nutrient levels.
Regularly replacing the nutrient solution and topping off the container as needed will help support vigorous growth and overall plant health.
Additional Tips for Caring for Pothos Plants in Water:
- Monitor the nutrient solution level and top it off as needed to ensure consistent nutrient supply.
- Change the water every two to three weeks to keep it fresh and prevent the buildup of algae.
- Clean the container periodically to remove any algae or hard water buildup that may accumulate over time.
Maintenance and Care Tips for Water-Rooted Pothos
Once you have successfully rooted your Pothos cuttings in water, it’s important to provide proper maintenance and care to ensure the continued health and growth of your water-rooted Pothos plants. Here are some tips to help you keep your plants thriving:
Regular Water Changes
To keep the water fresh and prevent the buildup of algae, it’s essential to change the water every two to three weeks. This will also ensure that your Pothos receives an adequate supply of oxygen. Simply pour out the old water and replace it with fresh, room temperature water.
Cleaning the Container
Periodically cleaning the container is important to remove any algae or hard water buildup. You can use a gentle brush or sponge to scrub away any residue. Rinse the container thoroughly before refilling it with fresh water and nutrient solution.
Monitoring Nutrient Solution
Regularly monitor the nutrient solution level in your container and top it off as needed. As your Pothos grows, it will require more nutrients for optimal growth. Keep an eye on the color of the leaves – if they start to pale or appear yellowish, it may be a sign that the plant needs more nutrients.
Bright, Indirect Light
Place your water-rooted Pothos in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. Pothos are adaptable plants and can tolerate lower light conditions, but they thrive best in bright, indirect light.
With these maintenance and care tips, you can enjoy lush and healthy Pothos plants growing in water. Remember to observe your plants closely and adjust their care as needed. Pothos are relatively low maintenance, making them perfect for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts. Happy growing!
Why Choose Water Propagation for Pothos

Water propagation for Pothos offers a unique and visually appealing way to grow these versatile houseplants. One of the main advantages of water-rooted Pothos is the ability to witness the growth of roots. It’s a fascinating process that allows you to observe the development of new roots as they grow and expand in the water. This not only adds an interesting element of nature to your space but also makes for a stunning display.
Another reason to choose water propagation for Pothos is its low-maintenance nature. Unlike traditional soil-based growing methods, water-rooted Pothos requires less frequent watering.
Once the roots have established in the water, they can draw up the necessary moisture and nutrients, reducing the need for constant monitoring and watering. This makes it an ideal choice for those who may struggle with regular plant care or have a busy lifestyle.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal and low maintenance, water-rooted Pothos can also be used in creative ways to enhance your home decor. You can incorporate these hydroponic Pothos plants into decorative indoor water features or even in fish tanks, creating a unique and eye-catching focal point. The vibrant green foliage combined with the flowing water adds a touch of natural beauty and tranquility to any space.
Benefits of Water Propagation for Pothos:
- Visual appeal: Witness the growth of roots
- Low maintenance: Requires less frequent watering
- Creative decor possibilities: Use in indoor water features or fish tanks
Growing Different Varieties of Pothos in Water
Water propagation is not limited to the plain Golden Pothos variety. You can expand your collection and add beauty to your space by growing different varieties of Pothos in water.
Experimenting with various Pothos varieties allows you to create a stunning display of plants in your home. From the vibrant neon Pothos with its bright leaves to the striking marble queen Pothos with its unique leaf patterns, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Each Pothos variety offers its own charm and foliage colors, providing an opportunity for you to personalize your indoor garden.
Whether you prefer the classic green and yellow combination of the Golden Pothos or the breathtaking white and green leaves of the Snow Queen Pothos, growing these varieties in water can bring a touch of nature and elegance to any space.
Final Thoughts and Share Your Experience
Growing Pothos in water has been a truly rewarding journey for me. It’s a simple and enjoyable way to care for these versatile houseplants. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced plant enthusiast, I highly recommend trying hydroponic Pothos.
The beauty of water propagation lies in the opportunity to witness the fascinating growth of roots. Watching those tiny roots develop and thrive is truly mesmerizing. Plus, you can experiment with different varieties of Pothos, each offering unique foliage colors and patterns, making your indoor space even more vibrant and beautiful.
If you’ve already tried growing Pothos in water, I would love to hear about your experiences. Share your journey in the comments below and let’s spread the joy of hydroponic Pothos to fellow plant lovers. Together, we can inspire and create a thriving community of indoor plant care enthusiasts.
Make sure to comment below on how you’ve done with your propagations!
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FAQ
Can I grow Pothos in water permanently?
Yes, it is possible to grow Pothos in water permanently through a process called water propagation or hydroponic pothos.
How do I grow Pothos in water?
To grow Pothos in water, start by making cuttings with a single node and place them in water with the nodes submerged. Provide regular nutrient solution for optimal growth.
What container should I use for growing Pothos in water?
Any watertight container will work, but a glass container is commonly used as it allows you to see the roots growing. You can also add decorative elements for visual appeal.
How do I provide nutrients for water-rooted Pothos?
It is recommended to use a water-soluble fertilizer, such as Dyna-Gro Grow, and add a teaspoon to a gallon of water. Regularly replace the solution to ensure healthy growth.
How do I maintain and care for water-rooted Pothos?
Change the water every few weeks, clean the container to remove algae or hard water buildup, and provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
What are the advantages of water propagation for Pothos?
Water propagation allows you to witness root growth, requires less maintenance, and can be used in decorative indoor water features or fish tanks.
Can I grow different varieties of Pothos in water?
Yes, you can grow different varieties of Pothos in water, expanding your collection and adding beauty to your space.
Why should I choose water propagation for Pothos?
Water propagation offers a unique opportunity to observe root growth and experiment with different varieties, making it an enjoyable and rewarding experience.