How to Grow Pothos from Cutting: Easy Steps

By Sophia Martinez · January 23, 2026

Propagating pothos from stem cuttings is simple and highly effective—just place a 4-6 inch cutting with at least two nodes in water or soil, keep it in bright, indirect light, and roots will develop within 7–14 days.

Why Propagate Pothos from Cuttings?

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is one of the most popular houseplants due to its hardiness, rapid growth, and low maintenance. Propagation through stem cuttings is not only cost-effective but also allows gardeners to expand their indoor greenery or share plants with friends.

Benefits of Stem Cutting Propagation

Fast and reliable method with high success rate
No need for seeds or specialized equipment
Preserves the genetic traits of the parent plant
Can be done year-round, especially in warm indoor environments

How to Take a Healthy Pothos Cutting

Selecting the right stem is crucial for successful propagation. Follow these guidelines to ensure your cutting has the best chance of rooting.

What to Look for in a Cutting

Length: 4–6 inches long
Nodes: At least two nodes (the brown bumps where leaves and aerial roots emerge)
Leaves: 2–4 healthy green leaves
Cut Location: Just below a node using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears

Avoid stems with yellowing leaves, pests, or signs of disease.

Water vs. Soil Propagation: Which Is Better?

Both water and soil propagation work well for pothos, but each has pros and cons depending on your goals and experience level.

Method	Root Development Time	Success Rate	Transplant Shock Risk	Best For
Water Propagation	7–14 days	95%	High (when transferring to soil)	Beginners, visual monitoring
Soil Propagation	10–21 days	85%	Low	Direct growers, low maintenance

Table data source:1, 2

Water propagation offers faster root visibility and higher initial success, making it ideal for beginners. However, transferring water-rooted cuttings to soil may cause temporary stress. Soil propagation avoids transplant shock but requires more patience and consistent moisture control.

Step-by-Step Guide to Water Propagation

Cut a healthy stem just below a node.
Remove the lower leaves to expose the node(s).
Place the cutting in a clean jar filled with room-temperature water.
Ensure at least one node is submerged, but no leaves are underwater.
Position in bright, indirect light (e.g., near an east-facing window).
Change water every 5–7 days to prevent bacterial growth.
Wait 7–14 days for roots to grow 1–2 inches long.
Transfer to potting soil once roots are established.

Step-by-Step Guide to Soil Propagation

Prepare a small pot with well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat moss and perlite).
Moisten the soil before planting.
Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional).
Plant the cutting so that one or both nodes are buried.
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Place in bright, indirect light.
Check for resistance when gently tugged after 2–3 weeks—this indicates root formation.

Tips for Success When Growing Pothos from Cuttings

Use sterile tools: Prevent infection by cleaning scissors with rubbing alcohol.
Maintain humidity: Cover soil-propagated cuttings with a plastic bag to retain moisture.
Avoid direct sunlight: Intense sun can scorch leaves and overheat water jars.
Fertilize lightly: Wait 4–6 weeks after transplanting before applying diluted liquid fertilizer.
Rotate regularly: Promote even growth by turning the container weekly.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Issues During Propagation

Rotting stem: Caused by dirty water or overly wet soil. Replace water or let soil dry slightly.
No root growth: May result from low light or old/inactive nodes. Try a fresher cutting.
Yellowing leaves: Natural for older leaves; if widespread, check for overwatering or nutrient imbalance.
Algae growth in water: Change water frequently and use opaque containers to block light.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Pothos from Cuttings

Can I propagate pothos in water indefinitely?

Yes, pothos can live in water permanently if you provide proper care. Change the water weekly and add liquid houseplant fertilizer at 1/4 strength monthly to replenish nutrients.

How long does it take for pothos cuttings to root?

In water, roots typically appear in 7–14 days. In soil, it may take 10–21 days due to slower moisture and oxygen dynamics.

Do I need rooting hormone to grow pothos from cuttings?

No, pothos cuttings root easily without rooting hormone. However, using it can speed up root development and increase root mass, especially in soil propagation.

Can I propagate pothos in low light?

While pothos tolerates low light, propagation requires bright, indirect light for optimal root development. Low light significantly slows or prevents rooting.

What size pot should I use when transplanting rooted cuttings?

Start with a 4–6 inch pot with drainage holes. A pot too large holds excess moisture, increasing the risk of root rot. Repot as the plant grows every 1–2 years.