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The Hawaiian Pothos (also known as Devil’s Ivy or Golden Pothos) is a stunning and versatile houseplant that is known for its vibrant, heart-shaped leaves with striking variegation of green, yellow, and white. This easy-to-grow plant is a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers, thanks to its low maintenance and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. Whether you’re adding it to your home, office, or garden, the Hawaiian Pothos can bring a tropical flair to any space. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your Hawaiian Pothos.
Hawaiian Pothos thrives in bright, indirect light, but it is incredibly adaptable and can tolerate a range of light conditions. While it will grow best in bright light, it can also survive in lower light environments, although its growth may slow down, and the variegation may become less pronounced. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the delicate leaves, causing them to turn yellow or brown.
If you’re growing your Hawaiian Pothos in a space with low light, you can still expect it to do well, but it may not grow as quickly. If you want to maintain the vibrant yellow and white marbling on the leaves, make sure it receives some bright, indirect light.
One of the reasons why Hawaiian Pothos is so popular is its forgiving nature when it comes to watering. This plant prefers to dry out slightly between waterings, so it’s important not to overwater it. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so always ensure that the pot has good drainage to allow excess water to escape.
To check if your Hawaiian Pothos needs water, simply stick your finger into the soil about an inch deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. When you do water, make sure to water thoroughly, allowing the water to drain out of the bottom of the pot. Be sure to empty any excess water from the saucer to avoid root rot.
In the winter months, when the plant’s growth slows, you can reduce the frequency of watering. Hawaiian Pothos is more susceptible to overwatering during this time, so it’s best to let the soil dry out a bit more between waterings.
Hawaiian Pothos thrives in warm temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). It prefers consistent warmth, so avoid placing it in areas with drafts or near cold windows during the winter months. Sudden temperature changes can stress the plant and cause damage.
The Hawaiian Pothos enjoys moderate to high humidity. While it can tolerate average indoor humidity, it will thrive in higher humidity levels. If you live in a dry climate or have low indoor humidity, you can increase the humidity around the plant by using a humidifier, placing a humidity tray under the pot, or regularly misting the leaves. However, be cautious not to over-mist it, as excess moisture can lead to fungal issues.
Hawaiian Pothos prefers well-draining, light, and airy potting soil. A standard houseplant mix with added perlite or orchid bark works well for this plant. The key is to ensure that the plants soil doesn’t stay soggy, as this can lead to root rot.
When choosing a pot, make sure it has drainage holes to allow water to escape. This will help prevent water from accumulating at the bottom of the pot, which can harm the roots. Repotting should be done every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. When repotting, choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to give the roots room to grow.
Hawaiian Pothos benefits from occasional fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength, and fertilize once a month. This will provide the plant with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
In the fall and winter, when the plant’s growth slows, you can reduce or stop fertilizing altogether. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can harm the roots, so it’s important to fertilize sparingly.
Pruning is an important part of maintaining a healthy and attractive Hawaiian Pothos. This plant is a vining species, and its growth can become long and unruly if not trimmed regularly. To encourage fuller growth and keep the plant looking neat, trim the vines back as needed.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut back any long or leggy stems. You can also propagate the cuttings to create new plants. To propagate, simply cut a healthy vine just below a node (the small bump on the stem where leaves and roots grow). Place the cutting in water, and after a few weeks, roots will begin to form. Once the roots are a few inches long, you can transplant the cutting into soil.
No, Hawaiian Pothos is not pet safe. Like other pothos varieties, it contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, & digestive system if ingested by pets. Keep the plant out of reach of curious pets, or consider choosing a pet-safe plant if you have animals that tend to chew on foliage.