A-Z Guide: Can Pothos Grow In Water? (+10 Best Companions)

Key Takeaways

Key Takeaways	Why It’s Useful
The Secret Behind Pothos’ Adaptability	Discover what makes this plant nearly indestructible.
Can Pothos Grow In Water Alone? TRULY?	Unravel the truth about hydroponic cultivation.
Essential Elements for Water-Grown Success	Find out the must-know factors for thriving plants.
Common Pitfalls & How to Overcome Them	Avoid the biggest mistakes when growing pothos in water.
The Pros & Cons of a Soil-Free Approach	Is growing in water really better than soil? Let’s compare.
Expert Tips for Long-Term Care	Unlock the secrets to lush, vibrant water-grown pothos.
Top 10 Hydroponic Companions for Pothos	Explore ideal plant pairings that thrive alongside pothos in water.

Unique Nature of Pothos Plants

Pothos or Epipremnum aureum is an evergreen vine native to Society Islands in French Polynesia. Over the years, it has become increasingly popular as a houseplant due to its easy-to-grow nature & vibrant foliage.

Furnishing splashes of green into interiors & homes with their heart-shaped leaves, these adaptable plants have earned a reputation as ultimate survivalists within botanical world.

Distinctly recognizable through their variegated or wholly green leaves punctuated by marbled lines or flecks, pothos’ unique appeal extends beyond aesthetics.

They are notoriously undemanding & resilient – capable of thriving under varying conditions with minimal intervention.

• Known for enduring low-light situations & inconsistent watering regimes often lethal for other indoor plants; hence this tropical plant offers both style & substance.
• But what makes these vining beauties even more interesting is their ability to adjust to different growing mediums – soil, sphagnum moss or water – offering gardeners intriguing cultivation options beyond traditional planting practices.
• While most routine gardening may involve nurturing them in nutrient-rich soil enriched with organic matter, we delve deeper into exploring whether pothos can genuinely grow exclusively in water- a curious case indeed!
• Lastly, renowned for being air purifying heroes within scientific research circles (Wolverton et al., 1989); they can absorb toxins like formaldehyde from everyday household items providing added health benefits alongside aesthetics – another testament to their uniqueness among indoor greens.

The Possibility of Growing Pothos in Water: Fact or Fiction?

So can this hardy vine actually survive minus soil confines?

The surprising answer is YES! Growing pothos plants submerged completely underwater may seem divergent from typical botanical wisdom prompting disbelief but scientifically it’s completely feasible – a reality that illustrates their remarkable adaptability.

Hydroponics: This technique, broadly addressed as hydroponics, removes soil from equation, relying instead on water alone for sustaining plant life.

In essence, pothos can transition seamlessly into being fully aquatic plants thriving on just water & ambient light when adequately facilitated. Hence it seems growing pothos in water is not so much fiction but a verifiable fact rooted in botanical science & practice.

However fascinating this might sound; making the switch isn’t as simple as tossing your potted houseplants into vases of tap water. It does require knowledge about certain key factors that directly influence success in pioneering this freeing yet unfamiliar territory of indoor gardening with such flora.

When given the right care, these tough plants adapt surprisingly well. They can grow without soil & bring a fun, underwater vibe to your space with ease!

7 Key Factors for Successfully Growing Pothos in Water

Translating theory into reality requires an understanding of the essential prerequisites crucial for successfully establishing thriving pothos colonies in water alone.

How to Grow Pothos in Water Successfully

Factor	Details
Propagation Method	Use cuttings rather than seeds Use healthy stem cuttings with 4–6 leaves Submerge nodes below waterline, keeping leaves above (thespruce.com)
Water Quality	Use spring or filtered water Chlorine in tap water can damage roots over time (ohiotropics.com)
Lighting	Place in bright, indirect light to support photosynthesis & avoid leaf burn (epicgardening.com)
Nutrient Delivery	Add liquid plant food occasionally to replace missing soil nutrients (happysprout.com)
Container Type	Use clear glass containers for easy observation & aesthetic appeal Ensure enough space for root growth
Water Temperature	Maintain water temperatures between 60–85°F to prevent root rot & stress
Observation & Maintenance	Monitor water clarity, root health & plant response regularly Replace water every 2–4 weeks

5 Common Problems in Water-Grown Pothos Plants (+ FIXES)

Like all other gardening practices, the possibility of encountering problems is inevitable – & aquatic pothos are no exception. With this unconventional method, however, issues may differ slightly.

Common woes range from:

Problem	Cause	Solution
Yellowing Leaves	Direct sunlight exposure or nutrient deficiency	Move to indirect light and add appropriate nutrients (houseplantauthority.com)
Murky Water	Decaying roots or stagnant water	Regularly change water & remove decayed roots (plantophiles.com)
Root Rot	Stagnant or cold water temperatures	Maintain moderate temperatures & change water every 2 to 4 weeks
Browning/Wilting Leaves	Dehydration or low humidity	Ensure water levels are adequate & consider increasing ambient humidity
Inconsistent Health	Lack of routine observation & balance	Observe regularly & adjust conditions to maintain healthy equilibrium

5 Benefits & 4 Drawbacks of Growing Pothos in a Water-Based Environment

Aquatic cultivation comes with its unique set of advantages & disadvantages, both from grower’s perspective & inherent characteristics of such a setup.

Aspect	Details
Benefits	Low Maintenance: No need for soil, reducing mess & pests (plantpropagation.org) Aesthetic Appeal: Transparent containers showcase root growth, adding visual interest Resource Efficiency: Requires fewer resources like soil & fertilizers Environmentally friendly! Creative Displays: Great for terrariums & DIY plant décor, inspiring unique & artistic arrangements Space-Saving: Perfect for small apartments or minimalist setups where traditional pots may not fit
Drawbacks	Nutrient Limitations: Water lacks essential nutrients found in soil Regular supplementation is necessary Water Quality Maintenance: Needs regular water changes to avoid root rot & algae buildup Mineral Buildup: Hard water can leave mineral deposits over time affecting root health Growth Limitation: Growth might be slower compared to soil-grown pothos due to limited nutrient access

Despite these minor inconveniences, benefits far outweigh drawbacks – making this method an intriguing & modern botanical choice that truly symbolizes progressive evolution of indoor gardening.

8 Essential Care Tips for Maintaining Healthy Water-Grown Pothos

Achieving great results requires outlining effective care directives to ensure your plants flourish with vibrancy. Since roots grow directly in water, providing nutrients & topping up fresh batches becomes vital for supporting healthy growth while inhibiting possible disease development simultaneously!

Tip	Details
Regular Water Changes	Replace water every 2-3 weeks to prevent stagnation & replenish oxygen
Use Appropriate Containers	Transparent glass containers allow monitoring of root health & water clarity My Recommendation: These are ideal for beginners or aesthetic setups
Maintain Optimal Temperature	Keep water temperature between 60-85°F to prevent root rot & promote growth
Monitor Light Exposure	Ensure plant receives bright & indirect sunlight for at least 6 hours daily
Space for Roots	Ensure enough space in container for growing roots to avoid overcrowding
Appropriate Nutrient Supplementation	Occasionally add liquid fertilizer to compensate for lack of soil nutrients
Container Type	Consider using opaque or tinted containers to prevent excessive algae growth My Recommendation: These are ideal for long-term setups
Observe Plant Behavior	Observing plant behavior such as leaf discoloration or slow root development, allows for timely interventions that can prevent setbacks

10 Best Companion Plants for Pothos: Enhance Your Hydroponic Garden

For those looking to expand their indoor garden, pothos also pairs well with other hydroponic plants such as –

Plant	Description
Lucky Bamboo	Easy to grow in water, it pairs well with pothos, creating a calm & serene vibe in your indoor garden
Philodendrons	They share similar growth habits with pothos, making them an excellent companion in water-based systems
Monstera Cuttings	Monstera pairs perfectly with pothos, with its large leaves & rapid growth
Spider Plant	Thrives in similar conditions as pothos, preferring indirect light & moderate watering Its air-purifying qualities complement pothos
Peace Lily	Enjoys indirect light & moist soil, aligning well with pothos care requirements Its elegant white blooms add sophistication to your hydroponic setup
ZZ Plant	Requires minimal water and low light, making it a suitable companion for pothos in hydroponic environments
Jade Plant	Thrives in bright light & dry conditions offering a contrasting texture & color alongside pothos
Hoya	Features trailing vines & waxy leaves, complementing pothos with their shared low-maintenance needs
Flapjack Plant	A succulent with attractive red-edged leaves, pairing well with pothos in a hydroponic system
English Ivy	Adaptable to various light conditions, it complements pothos by adding a different leaf shape & growth habit

Final Thoughts

Growing pothos in water is not just a trend but a testament to resilience of nature. Whether displayed in minimalist glass vases, hanging jars or terrarium setups, water-grown pothos add an element of sophistication & tranquility to any environment.

As with any plant care routine, a little attention & love go a long way in ensuring their continued vibrancy & longevity.

By embracing this alternative growing method, plant lovers can enjoy many benefits of pothos without hassle of soil maintenance. It opens up new possibilities for creative & effortless indoor gardening.

With right approach, your water-grown pothos will thrive & provide lush greenery & a touch of natural beauty in your home for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do pothos grow better in water or soil?

Pothos thrive in both. Soil supports larger & stronger growth with richer nutrients while water offers a low-maintenance & aesthetic alternative.

What if my pothos is in water?

Ensure bright & indirect light, regular water changes & occasional nutrients. Use filtered or dechlorinated water to protect roots.

Why does my pothos keep dying in water?

Stagnant water, lack of nutrients or poor lighting weakens them. Refresh water, trim damaged roots & use diluted liquid fertilizer.

Will pothos roots rot in water?

Yes! If water stagnates or organic matter decays. Keep water clean, aerated & warm to prevent rot.

Can I keep my pothos in water forever?

Yes, with proper care. Regular maintenance ensures longevity though growth may be slower than in soil.

What fertilizer to use for pothos in water?

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, monthly to replenish nutrients.

How fast can pothos grow in water?

New leaves emerge every few weeks under optimal conditions. Warmer temperatures & proper care boost growth.