Jade Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy or Epipremnum aureum ‘Jade,’ is a classic green houseplant that is highly sought after for its easy care and ability to thrive in low light conditions.
This plant is closely related to the more popular Golden Pothos, but it stands out with its plain green leaves and lack of variegation.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Jade Pothos care, from lighting requirements to propagation techniques.
1. Light
Jade Pothos is a versatile plant that can tolerate lower light conditions compared to its variegated counterparts, such as Snow Queen Pothos.
While it can survive in low light, placing it in front of a window will promote better growth. You can position it in windows that receive indirect sunlight or in front of Eastern or Western facing windows for some direct sun exposure.
However, be cautious of placing it in all-day direct sunlight, as this can be detrimental to the plant’s health.
If you have a particularly sunny window, you can use sheer curtains or partially closed blinds to diffuse the light and protect the plant from excessive sun exposure.
2. Soil
Choosing the right soil is crucial for the healthy growth of Jade Pothos. A suitable soil blend consists of three parts all-purpose potting mix, such as Miracle Gro or Espoma, and one part perlite.
This blend strikes a balance between moisture retention and adequate drainage. If you prefer a ready-to-use potting mix specifically formulated for Pothos, you can try the Tropical Climber Soil Blend from Oh Happy Plants.
It is an excellent option that provides optimal conditions for your Jade Pothos. Remember to ensure that your pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
3. Repotting
When it comes to repotting Jade Pothos, it is essential to follow a few guidelines. Only move the plant to a slightly larger pot, typically one or two inches larger in diameter.
Avoid using significantly larger pots, as they can retain excess moisture, which may lead to root rot.
It is best to repot your Jade Pothos only when it becomes root bound, meaning the roots have filled the pot and are visibly crowded. Before transferring the plant to a new pot, gently loosen the root ball to encourage root growth in the new soil.
4. Watering
Proper watering is key to maintaining a healthy Jade Pothos. While these plants prefer relatively moist soil, it is crucial not to let the soil dry out completely.
As a general rule, wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering thoroughly. To determine soil moisture, use your finger to test the soil.
If it feels bone dry, it is time to water your plant. On the other hand, be cautious about overwatering, as Jade Pothos does not tolerate soggy soil.
Always discard any excess water that accumulates in the saucer or decorative pot to prevent waterlogging.
5. Fertilizer
To provide your Jade Pothos with the essential nutrients it needs, regular fertilization is necessary. One highly recommended fertilizer is Dyna-Gro Grow, which is a complete fertilizer containing all the macro and micronutrients necessary for plant growth.
It is urea-free, ensuring that it does not burn your plants. Use Dyna-Gro Grow according to the instructions provided, and you will notice significant improvements in your Jade Pothos over time.
6. Temperature
Jade Pothos thrives in warm temperatures and should not be subjected to temperatures below 60°F (15.5°C). It can tolerate temperatures up to approximately 85°F (24°C).
Avoid exposing your plant to cold drafts, as this can negatively affect its growth. If you place your Jade Pothos in a cool room, it may become stagnant and fail to thrive.
7. Humidity
Jade Pothos is a low-maintenance plant that does not require specific humidity levels. Average indoor humidity is generally sufficient for its well-being.
However, if you can provide increased humidity, such as through the use of a humidifier or by grouping plants together, your Jade Pothos will appreciate it.
During the winter months when forced air heating is used, the plant can tolerate lower humidity levels without significant issues.
8. Propagation
Propagating Jade Pothos is a simple and rewarding process. By following these tips, you can successfully propagate your plant:
- Cuttings: Take 4-6 inch long cuttings, ensuring they have at least one node. Nodes are crucial for root development.
- Water Propagation: Place the cuttings in water, making sure the bottom node is submerged. Position the propagation vessel in front of a window with indirect sunlight or up to 3-4 hours of direct sunlight.
- Rooting: Depending on the conditions, your Jade Pothos cuttings will root within a few days to a couple of weeks. Spring and summer are the ideal seasons for propagation, as it is a period of active growth.
- Potting: Once the roots reach approximately an inch in length, you can pot up the cuttings in well-draining soil.
For a detailed step-by-step tutorial on propagating Pothos, including visuals, refer to the Where to Cut Pothos to Propagate blog post.
Additionally, if you have encountered difficulties in rooting Pothos cuttings in the past, you can find helpful information in the blog post about the top 10 reasons for failure in rooting Pothos cuttings.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
9.1 Jade Pothos vs. Heart Leaf Philodendron
Distinguishing between Jade Pothos and Heart Leaf Philodendron is relatively simple. One key difference is that Heart Leaf Philodendron has cataphylls covering the nodes, while Jade Pothos does not.
For a more comprehensive comparison and additional distinctions, refer to the Pothos vs. Philodendron blog post.
9.2 Jade Pothos vs. Golden Pothos
Jade Pothos and Golden Pothos share a striking resemblance, with the main distinction being the presence of variegation in Golden Pothos leaves.
However, it is essential to note that under low light conditions, Golden Pothos may lose its variegation and resemble Jade Pothos.
9.3 Dealing with Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves in Jade Pothos can indicate various issues. One common cause is allowing the soil to dry out completely for an extended period. In such cases, the lower leaves are typically the first to turn yellow.
To address this, check the soil moisture regularly and water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. It is also advisable to remove any yellow leaves promptly.
For more insights into the causes of yellow leaves in houseplants, refer to the blog post on causes of yellow leaves in houseplants.
9.4 Managing Aerial Roots
Jade Pothos, like other Pothos plants, develops aerial roots. In their natural habitat, these roots help the plant attach itself to tree trunks as it climbs. When growing Jade Pothos indoors using a moss pole, the aerial roots will grow into the moss and contribute to the plant’s upward growth.
However, if you prefer to grow your Jade Pothos in a hanging basket, you can leave the aerial roots as they are. They are a natural part of the plant’s growth and do not require any specific management.
By following these comprehensive care guidelines, you can ensure the health and vitality of your Jade Pothos. Enjoy the beauty of this low-maintenance houseplant as it adds a touch of lush greenery to your indoor space.