Family: Araceae
Common Name: Neon Pothos
Botanical Name: Epipremnum aureum ‘Neon’
If you are a beginner who loves beautiful plants but are afraid of commitment, this lush, leafy tropical evergreen is perfect. Its heart-shaped leaves will undoubtedly allure you, but its placement at the top of the easy-care plant list will make you fall in love. They also help clean -- the air, that is! These indoor vines have unbelievable resilience and the ability to grow where many houseplants cannot, like in darker corners of your home or office. Train them to climb up trellises and poles or can be left to dangle over the edges of tables, shelves, and countertops. Neon Pothos are not only easy-care plants but their beauty and grace should not be overlooked.
Light
Epipremnum prefers medium to bright indirect sunlight but can live in lower light conditions. However, the leaves will be smaller, and the vines will become leggy if the light is not bright enough. Neon Pothos will keep their vibrant colors if they receive more than 4 hours of indirect sunlight daily. If your space is light challenged, try using LED (light-emitting diode) lights as a supplement light source.
Water
Water the soil thoroughly after the soil is almost parched. When the leaves start wilting, it is the best time to water them. Water more often in the growing season and reduce the frequency during winter. If the soil becomes compacted, soak the entire root system (root ball) in a bucket of water for 10 minutes to help loosen up the soil.
Soil
Neon Pothos requires soil rich in organic matter that drains well but not excessively. The roots need time to absorb the moisture from the soil, but not so much time that the roots can drown! You can use any reputable soil mixture containing organic composted material and does not contain water-retentive crystals.
Temperature
Most average household temperature ranges will be adequate for these indoor plants. However, if they remain in temperatures under 55℉, their growth will stunt. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can be fatal to these tropical indoor plants.
Humidity
As with most tropical indoor plants, epipremnum will benefit from higher humidity but will do fine in average household air. Learn how to increase the humidity for your houseplants!
Fertilizer
This genus of plants highly benefits from regular fertilizing. Use a weak solution of a complete liquid fertilizer every two weeks throughout the growing season. Do not fertilize during the winter months. Sometimes your indoor plants will grow all year long. If this is the case, fertilize them during this time with a ¼-strength diluted liquid fertilizer, or top dress the soil with worm castings or nutrient-rich compost.
Growth Rate
Neon Pothos is one of the fastest-growing plants. If they get the care they require, the plants will grow as long as you let them! Amazing, right?
Pet Friend or Foe
The Neon Pothos is toxic if ingested. Please keep it away from your pets and small children. Foe!
Pro Tips
- To encourage the foliage to become fuller, trim back the foliage.
- Plant a few smaller plants into one larger pot to create a full plant.
- Encourage your pothos to climb on unexpected structures like staircases and ladders.
- Rotate your pothos ¼-turn once a week to keep a balanced, full figure.