Rooting Pothos Cuttings: Water vs. Medium Method

Why Water-Rooted Cuttings Fail and How to Succeed

A Kingston, Canada gardener rooted pothos stems in tap water. After 3–4 weeks, new shoots turned brown/black. Hard water, chlorine, and direct late-afternoon sun are factors. One cutting was potted in soil with blue fertilizer crystals.

Better Method

Nick recommends rooting in moist vermiculite/perlite mix, not water (water roots are weaker). Cover cuttings with a perforated bag, keep out of direct sun. Use purified water (chlorine harms rooting). Move water-rooted cuttings to the mix. Tap water chlorine and mineral buildup cause the burning.

Key Fixes

• Switch to soilless mix.
• Use purified water.
• Provide bright indirect light.
• Avoid fertilizer until rooted.