How to Plant Money Plant Indoor: Easy Steps

By Priya Sharma · January 24, 2026

Planting a money plant indoors is simple: choose a healthy cutting, use well-draining soil, place in bright indirect light, and water when the top inch of soil is dry. This low-maintenance houseplant thrives in stable indoor conditions and grows rapidly with minimal care.

Why Grow a Money Plant Indoors?

The money plant (Epipremnum aureum), also known as pothos or devil's ivy, is one of the most popular indoor plants due to its resilience, air-purifying qualities, and symbolic association with prosperity and good luck.

Thrives in low to bright indirect light
Requires minimal watering
Purifies indoor air by removing toxins like formaldehyde
Grows quickly with proper care
Suitable for beginners and experienced plant owners alike

Choosing the Right Money Plant Variety

Common Indoor Varieties

Different cultivars offer unique leaf patterns and growth habits. Select based on your aesthetic preference and lighting conditions.

Golden Pothos: Variegated yellow-green leaves; most common and adaptable
Marble Queen: White and green marbled foliage; prefers brighter light
Jade: Solid deep green leaves; tolerates lower light
Neon: Bright lime-green leaves; adds vibrant color
Manjula: Mottled white, green, and cream coloring; slower grower

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting a Money Plant Indoors

Select a Healthy Cutting

Choose a stem with at least 4–6 inches in length and 2–3 nodes. Nodes are small bumps where roots and leaves emerge—essential for propagation.

Rooting Methods: Water vs. Soil

You can root cuttings in water or directly in soil. Water propagation allows you to monitor root development.

Cut just below a node using sterilized scissors
Remove lower leaves to prevent rot
Place in clean water or moist potting mix
Change water every 7–10 days if rooting in water
Expect roots within 1–3 weeks

Transplanting to Pot

Once roots reach 1–2 inches long, transfer to a pot with drainage holes.

Use a well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite)
Choose a container 1–2 inches larger than the root ball
Water lightly after planting
Keep in warm, humid location with indirect sunlight

Optimal Care Conditions for Indoor Money Plants

Light Requirements

Money plants prefer bright, indirect light but tolerate low light. Avoid direct sun, which scorches leaves.

Watering Schedule

Overwatering is the leading cause of death. Wait until the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry before watering.

Humidity and Temperature

Ideal temperature: 65°F–85°F (18°C–29°C). Average household humidity (40–60%) is sufficient, though higher humidity boosts growth.

Fertilization

Feed monthly during growing season (spring–summer) with balanced liquid fertilizer (N-P-K 20-20-20), diluted to half strength. Reduce in fall and winter.

Care Factor	Optimal Range	Low Tolerance	High Tolerance
Light Intensity (lux)	1,000 – 5,000	250	10,000
Soil Moisture (%)	40 – 60	20	80
Temperature (°F)	65 – 85	55	95
Relative Humidity (%)	50 – 60	30	80
pH Level	6.0 – 6.5	5.5	7.0

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that money plants thrive under moderate indoor conditions but have wide tolerance ranges, especially for light and humidity. Their adaptability makes them ideal for various home environments, though sustained extremes reduce vigor and variegation.

Common Problems and Solutions

Yellow leaves: Usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage
Brown leaf tips: Low humidity or inconsistent watering
Leggy growth: Insufficient light; move to a brighter spot
Drooping: Underwatering or root rot
Pests: Watch for spider mites, mealybugs; treat with insecticidal soap

About Money Plants: Common Questions

Can money plants grow in water indefinitely?

Yes, money plants can live in water permanently if provided with proper nutrients. Change the water weekly and add liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks to maintain health and growth.

How fast does a money plant grow indoors?

Under optimal conditions, money plants can grow 12–18 inches per month during spring and summer. Growth slows significantly in winter.

Is the money plant toxic to pets?

Yes, it contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in cats and dogs. Keep out of reach of pets.