Pothos (*Epipremnum aureum*) is a popular houseplant known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in various conditions. Propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing ones, and pothos can be propagated through stem cuttings or, in some cases, from a single leaf. However, successful propagation depends on the presence of a node, a small bump on the stem where roots and leaves emerge. A leaf alone, without a node, cannot grow into a new plant because it lacks the necessary tissue for root development.
For pothos propagation to succeed, the cutting must include at least one node. The node contains meristematic cells, which are capable of differentiating into roots or shoots. A single leaf attached to a small section of stem with a node can be propagated, but a leaf without a node will simply wither over time. When placed in water or soil, the node will develop roots, allowing the cutting to grow into a new plant.
To propagate pothos from a single leaf, follow these steps:
Step 1: Select a healthy leaf with a short section of stem and at least one node. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make the cut.
Step 2: Place the cutting in a container of water, ensuring the node is submerged while the leaf remains above the water. Alternatively, plant the cutting directly in moist potting soil, burying the node.
Step 3: If using water, change it every few days to prevent bacterial growth. Roots should begin to emerge from the node within 2–4 weeks.
Step 4: Once the roots are 1–2 inches long, transplant the cutting into soil if it was propagated in water. Keep the soil consistently moist for the first few weeks to help the plant establish itself.
While propagating pothos from a single leaf with a node is possible, it is not always the most efficient method. A stem cutting with multiple leaves and nodes has a higher chance of success because it contains more energy reserves and growth points. A single leaf cutting may take longer to establish and could be more susceptible to rot or failure if conditions are not ideal.
To maximize success, provide the following conditions for your pothos cutting:
Light: Place the cutting in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaf or cause excessive evaporation.
Temperature: Maintain a warm environment (65–85°F or 18–29°C) to encourage root growth.
Humidity: Higher humidity levels can prevent the leaf from drying out. Consider covering the cutting with a plastic bag or placing it in a humid environment.
Water Quality: If propagating in water, use filtered or distilled water to avoid chlorine or mineral buildup, which can harm delicate roots.
If propagating from a single leaf proves challenging, consider these alternatives:
Stem Cuttings: Take a 4–6 inch stem section with multiple leaves and nodes. This method is more reliable and faster.
Air Layering: Encourage roots to form on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant, then cut and pot the rooted section.
Division: For mature pothos plants, gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, each with stems and leaves, and repot them individually.
