Pearl And Jade Pothos Care: A Comprehensive Guide

Oleh Tamara Lueilwitz June 14, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you looking for a beautiful and easy-to-care-for houseplant? Look no further than the pearl and jade pothos! This stunning plant is known for its variegated green-and-white leaves, which can add a pop of color to any space.

But how do you care for this popular plant? In this post, we'll cover everything you need to know about pearl and jade pothos care.

The pearl and jade pothos, also known as Epipremnum aureum 'Marble Queen', is a member of the Araceae family. It's native to the Solomon Islands, but is now grown all over the world as a popular houseplant.

This plant is loved for its beauty and ease of care. It's a great choice for beginners or anyone looking for a low-maintenance plant that still looks great.

So, let's dive into the details of how to care for your pearl and jade pothos!

Light Requirements

Like most plants, the pearl and jade pothos needs light to thrive. However, it can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, from low to bright indirect light.

If you have a well-lit room, you can place your plant near a window that gets plenty of sunlight. If you don't have a lot of natural light, you can use artificial grow lights to help your plant thrive.

Watering

One of the great things about the pearl and jade pothos is that it doesn't require a lot of water. In fact, overwatering can be a common problem with this plant.

To avoid overwatering, wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering your plant. Then, water thoroughly, allowing the excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot.

It's important not to let your plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.

Soil

The pearl and jade pothos prefers well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. You can use a commercial potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

It's also a good idea to add some compost or worm castings to the soil to provide your plant with extra nutrients.

Temperature and Humidity

The pearl and jade pothos prefers temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate cooler temperatures, but should be kept away from drafts and extreme temperature changes.

This plant also thrives in high humidity, so it's a good idea to mist it regularly or place it near a humidifier.

Fertilization

To keep your pearl and jade pothos healthy and thriving, it's important to fertilize it regularly. You can use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

It's also a good idea to use a slow-release fertilizer every six months to provide your plant with a steady supply of nutrients.

Propagation

The pearl and jade pothos is easy to propagate, making it a great choice for anyone looking to expand their plant collection.

You can propagate your plant by taking stem cuttings and placing them in water or soil. If you choose to propagate in water, make sure to change the water regularly and wait until roots have formed before planting in soil.

Pruning

Regular pruning is important for the health and appearance of your pearl and jade pothos. You can remove any yellow or brown leaves, as well as trim back any leggy or overgrown stems.

Pruning can also encourage new growth and help keep your plant looking full and lush.

Pests and Diseases

While the pearl and jade pothos is generally a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases.

Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, make sure to keep your plant clean and dust-free, and inspect it regularly for signs of infestation.

If you do notice pests, there are a variety of natural and chemical treatments available to help get rid of them.

Toxicity

One important thing to note about the pearl and jade pothos is that it's toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and throat.

If you have pets or small children, it's important to keep your plant out of reach or choose a different houseplant that's non-toxic.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the pearl and jade pothos is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that's perfect for beginners or anyone looking to add some greenery to their home.

With the right care, this plant can thrive for years, providing you with a beautiful and healthy addition to your space.

FAQs

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

A: You should wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering your plant. This can vary depending on the humidity and temperature of your home, but generally you'll need to water once every 1-2 weeks.

Q: Can I propagate my pearl and jade pothos in water?

A: Yes, you can propagate your plant by taking stem cuttings and placing them in water. Make sure to change the water regularly and wait until roots have formed before planting in soil.

Q: Is the pearl and jade pothos toxic to pets?

A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and throat.

Q: How much light does my pearl and jade pothos need?

A: The plant can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, from low to bright indirect light. If you have a well-lit room, you can place your plant near a window that gets plenty of sunlight.

Q: What should I do if my pearl and jade pothos has spider mites?

A: To get rid of spider mites, you can use a variety of natural or chemical treatments. These include spraying your plant with a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol, or using a commercial insecticidal soap.

Q: Can I grow my pearl and jade pothos outdoors?

A: While the plant is typically grown indoors as a houseplant, it can be grown outdoors in warm, humid climates. Make sure to choose a spot with partial shade and well-draining soil.

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

A: You should fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. It's also a good idea to use a slow-release fertilizer every six months.

Q: How do I know if my pearl and jade pothos needs more light?

A: If your plant isn't getting enough light, you may notice that the leaves are smaller than usual or the variegation is less pronounced. You may also notice that the stems are growing longer and thinner than normal.

Q: Can I prune my pearl and jade pothos?

A: Yes, regular pruning is important for the health and appearance of your plant. You can remove any yellow or brown leaves, as well as trim back any leggy or overgrown stems.