The Ultimate Guide to Pearl and Jade Pothos Care: Tips and Tricks

Oleh Mamie Abernathy June 05, 2023 Post a Comment

If you're a plant enthusiast, you might have heard of the pearl and jade pothos. This popular houseplant is known for its stunning green and white variegated leaves that can brighten up any room. However, taking care of this plant requires some knowledge and effort. In this guide, we'll cover all aspects of pearl and jade pothos care, from watering to propagation.

Pothos plants, also known as Devil's Ivy, are one of the easiest houseplants to care for. They are low-maintenance and can tolerate a wide range of conditions, making them perfect for beginners. The pearl and jade pothos is a cultivar of the Epipremnum aureum species, which is native to the Solomon Islands. Its unique variegation pattern makes it a popular choice among plant enthusiasts.

To keep your pearl and jade pothos healthy, you need to provide it with the right amount of light, water, and nutrients. You also need to be aware of common issues that can affect your plant, such as pests and diseases. Let's dive into the details!

1. Light Requirements

Pearl and jade pothos plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. They can tolerate lower light levels, but their leaves may become less variegated. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so it's best to place your plant near a window that receives filtered light. If you notice that your plant's leaves are turning yellow or brown, it might be getting too much direct sunlight.

2. Watering Schedule

Watering your pearl and jade pothos can be tricky, as overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can cause the leaves to wilt. As a rule of thumb, you should water your plant once a week, or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause stress to the plant.

3. Soil Requirements

Pearl and jade pothos plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. You can use a mixture of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss to create a suitable growing medium. Make sure that the soil is not too compacted, as this can prevent water from draining properly.

4. Fertilizer

To keep your pearl and jade pothos healthy and thriving, you should fertilize it every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). You can use a balanced liquid fertilizer that is diluted with water. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can cause salt buildup in the soil.

5. Temperature and Humidity

Pearl and jade pothos plants prefer temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate lower temperatures, but they may stop growing if the temperature drops below 50 degrees. These plants also appreciate high humidity levels, so you might want to consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your plant to increase the moisture in the air.

6. Pruning

Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of your pearl and jade pothos. You should trim back any yellow or brown leaves, as well as any vines that are getting too long. You can also pinch off the tips of the vines to encourage bushier growth.

7. Propagation

Propagating your pearl and jade pothos is easy and fun. You can use stem cuttings or leaf cuttings to create new plants. Simply cut a healthy stem or leaf from your plant and place it in a jar of water or a pot of soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location and wait for roots to develop.

8. Common Issues

Like all plants, pearl and jade pothos can be affected by pests and diseases. Some common issues to watch out for include spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and root rot. If you notice any signs of infestation or disease, you should take action immediately to prevent it from spreading to other plants.

9. Toxicity

Pearl and jade pothos are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and throat. If you have pets or small children, it's best to keep your plant out of reach.

10. Benefits

Apart from their aesthetic appeal, pearl and jade pothos have several health benefits. They can purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide. They can also help reduce stress and anxiety levels, making them perfect for home and office environments.

Taking care of a pearl and jade pothos may seem daunting at first, but with the right knowledge and effort, it can be a rewarding experience. Remember to provide your plant with the right amount of light, water, and nutrients, and be aware of common issues that can affect its health. With proper care, your pearl and jade pothos will thrive and bring beauty to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How often should I water my pearl and jade pothos?

A: You should water your pearl and jade pothos once a week, or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause stress to the plant.

Q2: Can I grow a pearl and jade pothos in low light conditions?

A: Yes, pearl and jade pothos can tolerate lower light levels, but their leaves may become less variegated. They thrive in bright, indirect sunlight.

Q3: How do I propagate a pearl and jade pothos?

A: You can use stem cuttings or leaf cuttings to create new plants. Simply cut a healthy stem or leaf from your plant and place it in a jar of water or a pot of soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location and wait for roots to develop.

Q4: Why are the leaves of my pearl and jade pothos turning yellow?

A: Yellow leaves on a pearl and jade pothos can indicate several issues, such as overwatering, underwatering, or too much direct sunlight. Make sure you're providing your plant with the right amount of water and light.

Q5: Can I fertilize my pearl and jade pothos during the winter months?

A: No, you should only fertilize your pearl and jade pothos every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Fertilizing during the winter months can cause stress to the plant.

Q6: How tall can a pearl and jade pothos grow?

A: Pearl and jade pothos can grow up to 6 feet long if given the right conditions and care.

Q7: Can I prune my pearl and jade pothos anytime?

A: Yes, you can prune your pearl and jade pothos anytime to maintain its shape and health. You should trim back any yellow or brown leaves, as well as any vines that are getting too long.

Q8: How do I increase humidity levels for my pearl and jade pothos?

A: You can increase humidity levels for your pearl and jade pothos by using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your plant to increase the moisture in the air.

Q9: How often should I fertilize my pearl and jade pothos?

A: You should fertilize your pearl and jade pothos every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced liquid fertilizer that is diluted with water.