Pruning guide

How to Prune Pothos for Fuller Growth

Pothos tolerates pruning well. Shortening a vine just above a node left on the parent encourages growth from that area, while a cutting needs at least one node of its own to root.

Epipremnum aureum

Mark cuts on my photo

Best time to prune

Spring and summer, though light trimming is possible year-round indoors

How often

Pinch or trim whenever vines become sparse or outgrow their space

Step-by-step

Find the nodes

Nodes are small bumps where leaves and aerial roots emerge. Decide which node stays on the plant and which nodes belong to a cutting.

Shorten leggy vines

Cut just above a node on the parent vine. Vary the cut heights to keep the plant natural and full.

Remove weak growth

Take out yellow leaves and thin damaged sections at their base.

Prepare cuttings

Trim healthy removed vines into sections with at least one node each, then root them in water or a light potting mix.

Replant for fullness

Once rooted, add cuttings around the original pot to fill sparse areas at the top.

Avoid these mistakes

Do not make a propagation cutting without a node

Avoid contact with sap, especially around pets and children

Do not prune away most of the foliage at once

Aftercare

Keep the parent in bright indirect light

Maintain normal watering rather than keeping soil constantly wet

Change propagation water regularly

Frequently asked questions

Does pruning pothos make it bushier?

Pruning can activate growth near remaining nodes. Replanting rooted cuttings into the same pot is the most reliable way to create a fuller top.

Where should I cut a leggy pothos?

Cut the parent vine just above a node at the point where you want growth to resume. Keep at least one node on any cutting you plan to propagate.

Pruning a real pothos?

A guide explains the method. A photo can show the exact stems and nodes visible on your plant.

Open photo pruning assistant