Houseplants bring life into any space, and if you’re lucky enough to own a pothos plant, you’ve probably admired its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves more than once. But did you know you can easily grow more pothos plants without digging into a single pot of soil?
Welcome to the magical world of water propagation. That’s right—no soil needed. Just a healthy vine, a glass of water, and a bit of patience are all it takes to turn a single pothos plant into a lush mini jungle.
Whether you’re trying propagation for the first time or looking to refresh your indoor décor with new green additions, this method is beginner-friendly, mess-free, and incredibly satisfying. Let’s take a closer look at why it works and how you can do it successfully.
Why Propagate Pothos in Water?
Is Water Propagation Really That Effective?
Yes, it is—and more than that, it’s fascinating to watch! Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), also known as devil’s ivy, is one of the easiest houseplants to propagate in water. Unlike some finicky plants that demand humidity domes or special soil mixes, pothos is perfectly happy in a simple jar of water. Roots form quickly, leaves stay vibrant, and you get to observe the entire process as it unfolds.
Plus, this method doesn’t just work—it thrives. With the right light and care, your cuttings will grow into strong, healthy plants that can stay in water indefinitely or be transferred to soil later on.
Benefits of Water Propagation
Here’s why so many plant lovers (and plant newbies) prefer propagating pothos in water:
- 🌿 Mess-Free Experience: Forget potting mix on the floor or under your nails. Water propagation keeps everything neat and tidy.
- 🌱 Visual Satisfaction: Watching white roots grow and curl in water is both beautiful and educational.
- 🪴 Decorative Touch: A few jars filled with leafy cuttings can become a centerpiece for your table or windowsill.
- ✂️ Simple to Do: No advanced tools or plant knowledge needed—just snip, place in water, and watch the magic happen.
- 🌍 Great for Gifting: Share your propagated pothos with friends and family as a low-cost, heartfelt gift.
Getting Started – What You’ll Need
Before jumping into the how-to steps, gather the right materials. These tools make the process smooth and give your cuttings the best chance to root and thrive.
Supplies Checklist
- ✂️ Sharp, Clean Scissors or Pruning Shears: Clean cuts reduce the risk of infection and disease.
- 🌿 Healthy Mother Pothos Plant: The healthier the parent plant, the stronger your new cuttings will be.
- 🫙 Glass Jar, Vase, or Cup: Clear containers let you see root growth and monitor water quality.
- 💧 Filtered, Distilled, or Dechlorinated Tap Water: Harsh chemicals in untreated tap water can hinder root growth.
- ☀️ Bright, Indirect Light: Essential for both the parent plant and new cuttings to thrive.
- ⚗️ Optional Rooting Hormone: Not necessary for pothos but can speed up root development.
💡 Tip: Use multiple containers if you plan to propagate several cuttings at once. This prevents overcrowding and promotes healthy root growth.
Step-by-Step: How to Propagate Pothos in Water Successfully
Step 1 – Choose the Right Vine
Start by identifying a vine on your pothos plant that’s healthy, strong, and not too woody. Look for vines with multiple nodes—the small bumps where leaves and aerial roots form. These are your rooting hotspots.
Avoid vines with yellow or drooping leaves, as those signs might indicate stress or disease. A vibrant green vine with firm leaves is your best bet.
Step 2 – Make the Perfect Cut
Using clean, sharp scissors, cut a segment of vine about 4–6 inches long. Ensure it includes at least one node and a few leaves. For best results:
- Cut just below a node, since this is where roots will grow.
- If you’re cutting a long vine, consider dividing it into several sections, each with one or two nodes.
Remember: Each node is a potential new plant!
Step 3 – Remove the Lower Leaves
This step is crucial. Leaves left below water can rot, attract bacteria, and ruin your propagation attempt. Gently pluck off any leaves that would sit beneath the waterline once your cutting is placed in the container.
Leave the topmost leaves intact—they’ll continue photosynthesizing and feeding the plant.
Step 4 – Place Cuttings in Water
Now for the fun part. Fill your jar or container with clean, room-temperature water. Place the cuttings into the jar so the node is fully submerged, but the leaves remain above water.
Make sure each cutting has space and isn’t crammed in tightly. Good airflow around the nodes promotes healthier root development.
🌿 Pro Tip: Avoid placing your jars near heat sources like stoves or radiators. Warmth is good, but too much heat can stress your cuttings.
Step 5 – Provide the Right Light
Light is life. While pothos are tolerant of low light, your cuttings need bright, indirect sunlight to grow strong roots. A north- or east-facing window is ideal.
Avoid placing them in harsh direct sun, especially through glass—it can overheat the water and damage the plant.
Step 6 – Refresh the Water Regularly
Water may look fine, but bacteria can build up quickly. To keep your cuttings healthy:
- Change the water every 3 to 5 days.
- Rinse the jar and trim the stems slightly if you notice any mushy or darkening ends.
- Always refill with fresh, clean water.
This small step makes a big difference in root health and prevents rot.
Watching the Magic – What Happens Next?
How Long Does It Take for Pothos to Root in Water?
If you’ve followed the steps correctly and provided good light and clean water, you should start seeing tiny white roots after 7–10 days. These are the first signs that your cutting is taking hold.
By 3 to 6 weeks, those baby roots will grow longer, branch out, and be strong enough to support a new plant.
Signs of Success
- ✅ New root growth from the submerged node(s)
- ✅ Leaves staying green and firm
- ✅ Possible new leaf shoots emerging
Red Flags to Watch For
- ❌ Cloudy or foul-smelling water – Clean immediately
- ❌ Black or mushy stem ends – Recut the stem above the rot
- ❌ Yellowing or wilting leaves – Check water quality and lighting conditions
🧪 Bonus Tip: Add an activated charcoal chip to your water container to keep bacteria at bay.
What’s Next? When to Transfer to Soil (If Ever)
Can Pothos Stay in Water Forever?
Yes, they can! Many people keep their pothos in water permanently. If you enjoy the minimalist look of roots in glass and are committed to regular water changes, your plant can live a long and happy life right where it is.
Just remember to add a diluted liquid fertilizer once a month to provide nutrients that soil would normally offer.
Want to Transfer to Soil? Here’s How:
If you prefer traditional potted plants or want to boost growth, transplanting is easy. Once your roots are at least 2–4 inches long, follow these steps:
- Prepare a pot with drainage holes and fresh potting mix.
- Gently transfer the rooted cutting, making sure roots aren’t damaged.
- Water thoroughly, letting excess moisture drain out the bottom.
- Keep in a warm, bright spot with indirect sunlight for 1–2 weeks as the plant adjusts.
Creative Display Ideas for Water-Grown Pothos
Why hide your propagation jars when they can double as décor?
- 🌼 Vintage glass bottles: Perfect for a rustic or cottagecore vibe.
- 🧪 Test tubes in a wooden rack: Great for minimalist, modern homes.
- 🌙 Moon-shaped hanging glass terrariums: Add mystery and style.
- 🪟 Window-mounted jars with suction cups: Save space and show off your greenery.
A few pothos cuttings in water can easily become a focal point in your living room, office, or kitchen.
Common Questions About Water Propagation
Can I Use Tap Water?
Yes—but let it sit out overnight so chlorine can evaporate. If you’re in an area with hard water, filtered or distilled is a better choice.
How Often Should I Change the Water?
Every 3 to 5 days. Don’t wait until the water gets murky—stay ahead of bacteria buildup.
Do I Need Fertilizer?
Not in the first few weeks. If your plant stays in water long-term, use a mild liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks to nourish it.
Why Are My Cuttings Wilting?
Could be too much sun, poor water, or rotting leaves below the surface. Reassess your setup and adjust accordingly.