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You can grow golden pothos from cuttings with just a few simple steps.
This popular houseplant is one of the easiest to propagate, so even beginners can succeed.
If you’ve been wondering how to grow golden pothos from cuttings, you’re in the right place.
Golden pothos cuttings root quickly in water or soil, making the whole process very rewarding.
In this post, we’ll cover why growing golden pothos from cuttings works so well, the best methods, and how to care for your new plant.
Let’s dive right into how to grow golden pothos from cuttings.
How to Grow Golden Pothos from Cuttings: The Simple Method
The best way to start growing golden pothos from cuttings is to take a healthy stem with a few leaves and a node.
Here’s exactly how to grow golden pothos from cuttings step by step.
1. Choose a Healthy Parent Plant
To grow golden pothos from cuttings successfully, begin with a vigorous, pest-free mother plant.
Look for stems that are firm, green, and have several leaves with good variegation.
Avoid stems that are yellowing or damaged, as they may not root well.
A healthy parent plant gives your golden pothos cuttings the best start.
2. Make the Right Cut
When you learn how to grow golden pothos from cuttings, the cut matters a lot.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to snip just below a leaf node.
A node is the small bump where a leaf meets the stem, and it’s where roots will emerge.
Each golden pothos cutting should be about 4–6 inches long and have at least one node and two to three leaves.
3. Remove Lower Leaves
Strip off the leaves from the bottom inch or two of the stem.
If you leave leaves underwater or buried in soil, they can rot and harm your golden pothos cuttings.
This step is crucial when you grow golden pothos from cuttings, as it prevents decay.
4. Choose Your Propagation Medium
You can root golden pothos cuttings in water or directly in soil.
Water propagation is the most popular method for growing golden pothos from cuttings.
Simply place the cuttings in a jar or glass with enough water to cover the nodes, but not the leaves.
Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and clear.
For soil propagation, dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and plant it in moist potting mix.
5. Provide Bright, Indirect Light
Golden pothos cuttings need light to photosynthesize and produce energy for rooting.
Place them in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight.
Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves, and very low light, which slows root growth.
Good light is one of the secrets to how to grow golden pothos from cuttings quickly.
Best Conditions for Growing Golden Pothos from Cuttings
Once you know how to take the cutting, the conditions you provide matter just as much.
Here are the key factors for success when you grow golden pothos from cuttings.
1. Warmth Speeds Up Rooting
Golden pothos cuttings root fastest in warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C).
Keep them away from cold drafts or air conditioning vents.
A warm spot like the top of a refrigerator or a bright kitchen counter works great for growing golden pothos from cuttings.
2. Humidity Helps Prevent Wilting
While golden pothos cuttings don’t need a greenhouse, higher humidity supports leaf health.
If the air is very dry, mist the leaves occasionally or place a clear plastic bag over the cuttings (with ventilation holes).
This creates a mini humid environment that helps your golden pothos cuttings thrive.
3. Patience Is Part of the Process
Roots usually appear within 1–3 weeks for water propagation, and a bit longer in soil.
Check your golden pothos cuttings every few days to monitor progress.
Don’t disturb them too much, as roots are delicate.
Once roots are an inch or two long, you can transplant water-rooted cuttings into soil if you prefer.
Common Mistakes When Growing Golden Pothos from Cuttings
Even though it’s easy, a few pitfalls can slow you down.
Avoid these errors so you can grow golden pothos from cuttings without issues.
1. Cutting Without a Node
A cutting must include at least one node to root.
If you take just a leaf or a stem section without a node, it won’t grow roots.
Always double-check that your golden pothos cutting has a visible node.
2. Letting Leaves Sit in Water
Submerged leaves rot quickly and can foul the water.
When you grow golden pothos from cuttings in water, ensure only the bare stem and nodes are underwater.
3. Using Dirty Tools or Containers
Bacteria or fungi can attack your golden pothos cuttings.
Always sanitize your scissors and use clean jars or pots.
This simple habit makes a big difference in how to grow golden pothos from cuttings successfully.
4. Overwatering Soil Propagations
If you root in soil, keep it moist but not soggy.
Too much water can cause stem rot before roots form.
A good rule when growing golden pothos from cuttings in soil is to water only when the top inch feels dry.
So, How to Grow Golden Pothos from Cuttings? Final Tips
You can absolutely grow golden pothos from cuttings, and it’s one of the most satisfying plant projects.
In summary, take a cutting with a node, remove lower leaves, place it in water or soil, and give it warmth and indirect light.
In a few weeks, you’ll have roots and a brand-new plant to enjoy or share.
Growing golden pothos from cuttings is a fantastic way to multiply your collection for free.
Now you have all the steps to grow golden pothos from cuttings with confidence.
Happy propagating.