Golden Pothos Care Guide: Expert Tips for Epipremnum aureum

Golden Pothos Care Guide: Expert Tips for Epipremnum aureum

Welcome to the wonderful world of Golden pothos care! Epipremnum aureum is often referred to as a Golden pothos or Devil's ivy . A stunning and popular houseplant known for being an easy care climber. A wonderfully bright variety of Epipremnum, boasting brilliant green leaves with splotches of yellow streaks. These fast-growing Golden Pothos are known for their tolerance of lower light levels. They look great in a hanging planter or growing up a moss pole. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to keep your Golden pothos healthy and thriving.

Golden pothos Overview

Epipremnum aureum is native to SouthEast Asia and is part of the Araceae family. These trailing plants are often found creeping and growing up trees, because of this they are used to very low light conditions as they are often under the shade of other plants. Golden pothos vines can reach up to 20 metres and use their aerial roots to allow them to climb up trees. Favoured by houseplant enthusiasts due to their fast growing abilities and easy-care nature. Its nickname devils ivy comes from its amazing ability to stay green even in the shadiest of areas and it's hard to kill nature.

How to Look After a Epipremnum aureum (Golden Pothos)

Light:
Golden Pothos thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch their leaves. Golden pothos will tolerate lower light so perfect for that shadier spot in your house. If your plant receives too little light, it may develop leggy growth with fewer leaves.

Temperature and Humidity:
Maintain a temperature between 12-30°C and can tolerate average room humidity levels high. However Golden pothos will prefer an extra boost of humidity Mist your plant regularly or place it near a humidifier to create the perfect environment.

Watering:
Water your Golden pothos when most of the soil feels dry. It's better to underwater your plant than overwater, as too much moisture can lead to root rot. Use a well-draining potting mix with chunky components (such as coarse bark) and ensure the pot has drainage holes. Reduce watering in winter.

Fertilising:
During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your Golden pothos with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 4 waters, it is always advised to follow the instructions on your fertiliser. Reduce feeding in the dormant winter months.

 

How to Re-pot a Golden Pothos

Re-pot your Golden pothos when it becomes root-bound or outgrows its current pot, typically every 2-3 years. Choose a pot that's one size larger, provide fresh, well-draining soil, and gently transfer your plant, being careful not to damage the roots.

How to Propagate a Epipremnum aureum

Propagating Golden pothos is an exciting way to grow new plants. Follow these steps:

  1. Choose a Healthy Stem: Select a stem with at least 5 few leaves and 2 nodes (small bumps on the stem where a leaf emerges).
  2. Cut the Stem: Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut just below a node. Ensure your cutting is at least 8 cm long.
  3. Rooting: Place the cutting in lukewarm water or moist soil. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
  4. Transplant: Once your cutting has well-established roots, transplant it into a pot with the appropriate soil mix.


How to Prune a Golden Pothos

Pruning your Golden pothos helps maintain its shape and encourages healthy growth. Trim yellow or brown leaves, as well as leggy stems. Make clean cuts just above a leaf node.

How to Take a Cutting from a Golden Pothos

Taking cuttings for propagation follows a similar process as mentioned earlier. Ensure you choose a healthy stem, make a clean cut, and follow the propagation steps.

How Often Should I Water a Golden Pothos

Watering frequency depends on various factors like humidity, temperature, location and pot size . As a general rule, check the top two inches of soil and water when it's dry. Water less in winter and more frequently during the growing season.

Why Are My Golden Pothos Leaves Going Yellow/Brown/Curling?

  • Yellow Leaves: Yellowing leaves can result from overwatering, poor drainage, or too much direct sunlight. Adjust your watering and lighting conditions accordingly. If the leaves are wilting and yellowing it is most likely to be due to overwatering, check the roots for rot and re-pot if necessary.
  • Brown Leaves: Brown edges or spots may indicate low humidity, underwatering, or direct sunlight. Increase humidity and adjust your watering routine. Too much warmth, for example, if the plant is next to a radiator, can cause brown leaves that dry up and fall off.
  • Curling Leaves: Curling leaves can be a sign of underwatering, over-fertilization, or low humidity. Ensure proper watering and humidity levels.


How to Make a Golden Pothos Bushy

Encourage bushier growth by regularly pruning leggy stems and small leaves. Providing adequate support for your plant can encourage larger leaves. A moss pole or bamboo cane can be used to help it grow more compactly. Ensure your Satin pothos has enough light, lack of light can cause this plant to become leggy.

Are Golden Pothos Poisonous to Cats and Dogs?

Yes, Golden Pothos is considered toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, drooling, and digestive issues if ingested. Keep your Satin pothos out of reach of pets or opt for pet-friendly houseplants.



With these expert tips, you're well-equipped to care for your Epipremnum aureum and enjoy its lush, tropical beauty in your home. Happy Golden pothos growing!

Golden Pothos Care FAQs

Do Golden Pothos Like Direct Sunlight?

No, Golden pothos do not thrive in direct sunlight. They prefer bright, indirect light. Exposure to direct sun can scorch their leaves, leading to damage.

How Big Do Golden Pothos Grow?

Golden pothos can grow quite large if given proper care. Indoors, they can reach heights of 10-20 ft (3-6 metres), and in their natural habitat, they can grow even taller, 60 feet (18 metres).  Their leaves, which can grow indoors  from 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) and in their natural habitat, are 3 feet (1 metre) long or more. 

When to Repot a Golden Pothos?

You should consider repotting your Golden pothos when it becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years, although it can be sooner than this. Signs include roots emerging from the drainage holes or the plant outgrowing its pot.

Why Are My Golden Pothos Leaves drooping?

Drooping leaves can be a sign of underwatering. Pothos like to dry out a little between watering, if it's too dry the leaves will droop and curl. Make sure to water when the soil feels dry and wait till water has come out the drainage holes. Don't leave your plant sitting in water. 

Why Is My Golden Pothos Dying?

Several factors can contribute to a Golden pothos decline, including overwatering, underwatering, poor lighting, or pests. Assess your plant's care routine and adjust accordingly to revive it.

Are Golden Pothos Easy to Look After?

Yes, Golden Pothos are generally considered easy to care for, making them a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts. With proper attention to their light, water, and humidity needs, they can thrive.

Do Golden Pothos Need Sunlight?

Yes, they require bright, indirect sunlight to grow well. They can also tolerate lower light conditions, they may not thrive or grow as vigorously.

How Much Water Does a Golden Pothos Need?

Water your Satin pothos when the soil feels dry. The frequency of watering varies with factors like humidity and temperature and location. Always ensure proper drainage to prevent overwatering.

Do Golden Pothos Flower?

Yes, a mature Epipremnum can produce flowers under the right conditions. However, they are relatively rare when grown indoors. Most people grow them for their striking foliage and easy care rather than their flowers.

How to Clean Golden Pothos Plant Leaves?

Gently wipe your Epipremnums leaves with a damp, soft cloth or sponge to remove dust and dirt. This not only keeps the leaves looking healthy but also allows them to better absorb light.

How Long Do Golden Pothos Live?

With proper care, Golden pothos can live for 5 to 10 years or even longer. They are known for their longevity, making them a cherished addition to your indoor plant collection.

Why Is a Golden Pothos Called a Golden Pothos?

The name ‘aureum’ means golden, this references the gold-coloured markings on the leaves. Another common name is Devil's ivy. This nickname comes from its amazing ability to stay green even in the shadiest of areas and it's hard to kill nature.