Pothos 'Neon'

Pothos 'Neon' key facts

Growing Difficulty

Beginner-friendly

Lifespan

Perennial (evergreen climber)

Size

Vines keep growing; the species can trail up to about 12 m. In pots, trim to keep the size in check

Watering

About every other month in the growing season; none during winter dormancy

Light & Placement

Bright indirect light. In dim spots the bright colour dulls towards green. The pale leaves burn easily, so avoid direct sun.

Watering

Let the mix dry between waterings, then water thoroughly. Constantly wet soil causes root rot and blackened leaf edges. Water less in winter when growth slows.

Temperature & Overwintering

Tropical and tender. Keep it in a warm room in winter away from cold windows.

Soil & Repotting

Use a well-drained mix. Given a support to climb with its aerial roots, it tends to produce larger leaves; it is also commonly grown trailing from hanging pots.

Propagation

Vine cuttings root easily in soil or water.

Pests & Cautions

The name is easily confused with Philodendron 'Lemon Lime', so check the scientific name (Epipremnum aureum) when buying. Watch for mealybugs and scale. It contains insoluble calcium oxalates; if dogs or cats chew it they may suffer intense mouth irritation, drooling and vomiting. Keep it out of reach of pets and small children.

About Pothos 'Neon'

Pothos 'Neon' is a glossy, heart-leafed vine with no variegation - its leaves glow bright yellow-green to lime, brightening indoor spaces. An easy-care evergreen perennial, well suited to beginners.

7 things to know before growing Pothos 'Neon'

1. 1Bright, Indirect Light

   To keep its bright yellow-green color, Pothos 'Neon' prefers a spot with plenty of indirect light, such as near a sheer-curtained window. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, so avoid strong afternoon sun. In low light, the leaves tend to lose their glow and turn greener.

2. 2Water When Soil Dries

   Water thoroughly once the surface of the soil has dried out. Avoid letting water sit in the saucer, as overly wet soil can lead to root rot. Growth slows down in winter, so it's fine to water a little less often during that time.

3. 3Well-Draining Soil

   A standard houseplant potting mix, or one blended with perlite for extra drainage, works well. Avoid heavy, clay-like soil that drains poorly, as it can encourage root rot.

4. 4Repot Every 1-2 Years

   Roots showing through the drainage holes are a sign it's time to repot. Moving it into a slightly larger pot during spring to early summer, its active growing season, helps prevent the roots from becoming pot-bound.

5. 5Watch Cold and Dryness

   Although it's an evergreen vine, it isn't very cold-hardy, so keep it in a warm spot indoors during winter. Avoid placing it directly in the airflow of a heater or air conditioner, as that can dry out the leaves.

6. 6Trim Back Freely

   Because the vines grow steadily, it's fine to cut them back at any point once the length or shape starts to bother you. Cuttings placed in water will often root, letting you propagate new plants from the trimmings.

7. 7Check Leaf Color

   When choosing a plant, look for one with an even, bright yellow-green color across the leaves rather than one that has reverted to solid green. It's also worth checking for dried leaf tips or dark spots.

Frequently asked questions about Pothos 'Neon'

Q.Can it handle direct sunlight?

A.Strong direct sun can scorch the leaves, so it's best avoided. It prefers bright, indirect light, such as light filtered through a sheer curtain.

Q.Why are the leaves turning greener?

A.When light is insufficient, the leaves can lose their bright yellow-green tone and turn more green. Moving the plant to a brighter spot may help the color return.

Q.Can it be propagated from cuttings?

A.Yes, you can propagate it by cutting the stem into sections with a few nodes each and placing them in water or soil. Keep the cuttings in bright, indirect light until roots form.

Q.Does leaf drop in winter mean it's dying?

A.Cold or dry air can damage the leaves, but that doesn't necessarily mean the plant has died. Move it to a warmer spot and watch how it responds.

Q.How long can the vines grow?

A.The stems keep extending over time. When grown in a pot, you can trim it back to keep it at whatever size suits your space.

Handy Growing Tools for Pothos 'Neon'

Learn more about Pothos 'Neon' in the encyclopedia

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