Dwarf Golden Pothos
Dwarf Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum 'Golden Pothos') is a species of plant in the Araceae family that is native to Melanesia. A popular houseplant, it is hardy and easy to please—it grows in just about any light condition, even artificial. It is not picky about the soil, but some drainage is needed, and air circulation is helpful. The leaves of this plant have a waxy, glossy look and are deep green in color. Gold, yellow, or cream colored variegation adds to its overall beauty and appeal. This variety of Epipremnum aureum is more compact than its cousin, ‘Marble Queen’, and is a great choice for those looking for a smaller, more manageable houseplant.
This houseplant does need frequent watering; but make sure not to over water it. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering. You can also mist the foliage occasionally. In winter, the amount of water should be reduced.
Dwarf Golden Pothos is an easily grown and hard to kill houseplant. It can, however, be easily affected by its level of light. It loves bright indirect light, but can also be grown in a lower light setting. When kept in lower light, the variegation in the leaves will become less visible. You may also need to increase the frequency of watering in a lower light setting.
Dwarf Golden Pothos prefers temperatures between 65 and 80°F (18-27°C). Do not keep it in temperatures lower than 55°F (12°C). This houseplant loves humidity, but is tough and can cope with dry air.
Dwarf Golden Pothos prefers humid conditions. You can add some humidity to its environment by Grouping plants or by lightly misting them once or twice a week. When it is grown in drier conditions, the leaves may become brown on the edges.
Dwarf Golden Pothos prefers a soil that is well-draining yet also holds moisture. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is usually recommended, or a potting mix made specifically for epipremnum plants. Do not use regular potting soil as this will retain too much water and can lead to root rot.
Fertilization with a balanced, slow release fertilizer like a 10-10-10 is recommended about once a month during the growing season. Make sure that the fertilizer is well blended into the soil; applying it directly to the leaves can burn them. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper dosage and application.
Dwarf Golden Pothos can be attacked by mealybugs, scale, thrips, and spider mites. Mealybugs can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Scale can be controlled with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Thrips can be controlled with concentrate insecticidal soap or neem oil. Spider mites can be treated with insecticidal soap. Make sure to follow the instructions on the labels and keep your pets away from the treatment area.
During the spring, it's a good idea to repot your Dwarf Golden Pothos. Choose a pot that is no more than two inches larger than the current pot. Make sure the pot has enough drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting soil that is a mix of peat, perlite, and vermiculite or a potting mix created for epipremnum plants. When repotting, it is best to wait until after it is done blooming for the best results.
Dwarf Golden Pothos can be trimmed for shape and size. Pruning will also help to remove any dead and diseased leaves or stems. To prune, use sharp scissors or pruners and cut the stems back to the desired length. It is best to prune in the spring, after the plant is done blooming, as this will promote new growth.
Mulching is not necessary for this houseplant, but it can help keep the soil moist and cool and can also aid in weed control.
Dwarf Golden Pothos can easily be propagated from stem cuttings. To do this, cut a 6 inch stem with at least two leaves. Remove the lower leaves and insert the stem into moist soil. Place in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist. Roots and new foliage should appear within a few weeks.
Dwarf Golden Pothos may benefit from some support if it becomes leggy. Minimal pruning may also help to give a fuller, bushier appearance. If support is needed, small, thin branches inserted into the soil can provide support for the cascading foliage.
Dwarf Golden Pothos doesn't require a dormant period, but it may benefit from more frequent breaks from watering during the winter. This should finalize to once every two weeks or less.
Dwarf Golden Pothos, while not truly toxic, is not ideal for households with pets—especially cats and dogs. It can cause an upset stomach if ingested, and can cause skin irritations if touched.
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