Can You Plant Pothos and Philodendron Together? Expert Tips

Disclosure: As Amazon Associates we earn from qualifying purchases. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.

Please note that while we always strive to provide 100% up to date and accurate information, there is always the small possibility of error. Therefore, we advise conducting further research and due diligence before consuming any plants or exposing pets to anything mentioned on this site. Kindly refer to the full disclaimer for more details here.

Sharing is caring!

Pothos and Philodendron are two popular houseplants that are often grown separately, but many plant owners wonder if it’s possible to plant them together. In this article, we’ll explore whether or not you can plant Pothos and Philodendron together and provide some guidance on how to do so successfully.

Pothos and Philodendron Overview

Pothos Basics

Pothos, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum, is a popular and easy-to-grow houseplant. It is widely known for its beautiful, trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves that come in a variety of colors and patterns. Pothos plants thrive in moderate to low light conditions and prefer well-draining soil. They are drought-tolerant, which makes them an excellent choice for those who may occasionally forget to water their plants. Some common varieties of pothos include the Golden Pothos, Marble Queen, and Neon Pothos.

Philodendron Basics

Philodendrons belong to a large genus of flowering plants, with many species commonly used as houseplants. These plants are characterized by their lush foliage and attractive, heart-shaped leaves. Like pothos, philodendrons can adapt to a wide range of light conditions, but they can tolerate lower light levels more readily than pothos. Similar to pothos, they also require well-draining soil and a consistently moist environment, but not overly wet, to thrive. Some popular types of philodendrons include the Heartleaf Philodendron, Monstera Deliciosa, and Philodendron Brasil.

Both pothos and philodendrons are members of the aroid family, and their similar care requirements make it possible to plant them together. The plants benefit from similar temperature, water, and light requirements, making them suitable companions for growing in the same pot or container.

Benefits of Planting Them Together

Aesthetics

Planting pothos and philodendron together can create a visually stunning display. Their lush foliage and similar appearance can complement each other, resulting in an attractive, cohesive look for your indoor garden or living space. The vibrant green leaves of both plants can add a fresh and inviting touch to any room.

Complementary Growth Habits

These both have similar growth requirements, such as their preference for moist, well-drained soil and bright, indirect light. As they are both vining plants, they can be grown simultaneously and trained to climb up trellises or other supports. This shared growth habit allows them to thrive together and makes it easier for plant owners to provide the appropriate care for both types without worrying about drastically different watering or lighting conditions.

Improved Air Quality

In addition to their aesthetic appeal and complementary growth habits, planting pothos and philodendron together can also contribute to improved air quality in your home. Both plants are known for their ability to remove toxins from the air, contributing to a cleaner and healthier living environment. By incorporating these two plants into your indoor garden, you’ll be able to take advantage of their respective natural abilities to purify the air in your home while also enjoying the beautiful greenery they provide.

Potential Challenges

Plant Requirements

Pothos and philodendron are both tropical plants with similar requirements for temperature, humidity, and light. However, there are slight differences that may present challenges when growing them together. Philodendrons may not tolerate temperatures below 50°F, while pothos cannot withstand temperatures below 60°F. Additionally, pothos prefers a bit more light than philodendron.

Compatibility of Soil and Water Needs

Both plants prefer moist, well-drained soil, but their watering needs may slightly differ. To avoid overwatering or underwatering, it is essential to monitor the soil moisture of the mixed planting carefully. Pothos tends to wilt when it needs water, while philodendrons can be a bit more forgiving. Therefore, in a combined planting, it’s important to strike a balance between maintaining adequate moisture and not overwatering to suit both plants’ preferences.

Managing Pests and Diseases

Growing pothos and philodendron together might also bring about challenges in managing pests and diseases. If one plant is affected by an infestation or disease, it may quickly spread to the other due to their close proximity. Common pests that affect both plants include mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids; being proactive about detecting and treating these pests is crucial to maintaining the health and appearance of both pothos and philodendron.

Fertilizer Requirements

Another challenge when growing these two plants together arises from their different fertilizer needs. Pothos has slightly different fertilizer requirements from philodendrons, which can be difficult to manage when they are both growing in the same pot. For instance, in the wintertime, philodendrons can benefit from being fertilized on a 6-8 week basis, while pothos does not have the same need. To address this, consider applying a balanced fertilizer designed for mixed plantings or applying fertilizers separately for each plant, based on their specific needs.

Best Practices for Planting Them Together

Pot and Soil Considerations

When planting pothos and philodendron together, it’s essential to choose the right pot and soil. Opt for a large container with drainage holes to prevent overwatering, as neither plant tolerates excess moisture. A well-draining, fertile soil mix is suitable for both plants, ensuring their roots have access to the necessary nutrients while preventing waterlogging. Mixing equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss is a suitable blend to accommodate both pothos and philodendron plants.

Light and Temperature Requirements

Both pothos and philodendron thrive in bright, indirect light. It’s crucial to avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. Placing the plants near a bright window with filtered light or using artificial grow lights can help maintain their health and encourage growth. The ideal temperature range for these plants is between 65°F and 80°F, so ensure they are kept in a space with a stable, warm climate.

Watering and Fertilizing

Proper watering and fertilizing practices are essential for the healthy growth of pothos and philodendron. When planting them together, it’s crucial to monitor soil moisture levels, ensuring the container’s top few inches of soil have dried before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues in both plants. Using a moisture meter or your finger can help determine when it’s time to water.

Fertilizing both pothos and philodendron promotes overall health and growth. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the active growing season, typically from spring to early fall. Reduce fertilizing frequency during winter months when growth slows down.

By following these best practices for pot and soil considerations, light and temperature requirements, and proper watering and fertilizing routines, you can successfully grow pothos and philodendron together in one container, creating a beautiful and flourishing display.

Propagation Methods

When it comes to propagating pothos and philodendron plants, both have similar methods to encourage new growth. In this section, we will discuss the propagation techniques for both pothos and philodendron plants.

Pothos Propagation

To propagate pothos, you can follow these simple steps:

  1. Choose a healthy stem with several leaves and cut a 4-6 inch section just below a leaf node.
  2. Remove the bottom leaves, leaving at least 2-3 leaves on the cutting.
  3. Place the cutting in water, ensuring the cut end is submerged. Keep it in a bright area but away from direct sunlight.
  4. The cutting should develop roots within 1-2 weeks. Once the roots are 1-2 inches long, you can transplant the cutting to a pot with well-draining soil.

For those who prefer to skip the water step, there is an alternative method for pot-based propagation:

  1. Follow the first two steps mentioned above.
  2. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone.
  3. Plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil mix, ensuring the node and roots are covered with soil.
  4. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and place the pot in a bright area away from direct sunlight.

Philodendron Propagation

Philodendron plants can be propagated using a similar method to pothos:

  1. Select a healthy stem with several leaves and cut a 4-6 inch section just below a leaf node.
  2. Remove the bottom leaves, leaving at least 2-3 leaves on the cutting.
  3. Place the cutting in water, ensuring the cut end is submerged. Keep it in a bright area but away from direct sunlight.
  4. Within 1-2 weeks, the cutting should develop roots. Once the roots are 1-2 inches long, you can transplant the cutting to a pot with well-draining soil.

Similarly, you can also propagate philodendron directly in soil:

  1. Follow the first two steps mentioned above.
  2. Dip the cut end into a rooting hormone.
  3. Plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil mix, ensuring the node and roots are covered with soil.
  4. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and place the pot in a bright area away from direct sunlight.

In conclusion, both pothos and philodendron plants can be easily propagated through the same techniques. Follow these methods to propagate your plants and enrich your indoor garden with these beautiful, easy-to-grow plants.

Maintenance and Care Tips

Pruning and Training

Pothos and Philodendron can be planted together in the same container, as they have similar care requirements. To maintain these plants, regular pruning and training will promote healthy growth and prevent them from becoming unruly. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves regularly to encourage new growth. To train your plants, use a support structure like a trellis or stakes to guide the vines in the desired direction.

Repotting

Both Pothos and Philodendron will eventually outgrow their containers and need repotting. To do this, choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one and has adequate drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix, and remember that both plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. When repotting, gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the new container, filling in with additional soil. Water thoroughly after repotting and then continue with your normal watering schedule.

Watering

Pothos and Philodendron plants should not be overwatered, as this can lead to root rot. Instead, allow the top few inches of soil to dry before watering again. To check for moisture, stick your finger into the soil about two inches deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, wait a day or two to check again.

Light Requirements

Both Pothos and Philodendron thrive in bright, indirect light. An east- or west-facing windowsill is an ideal location for these plants. However, they can tolerate lower light levels as well. If your plants’ leaves start losing their vibrant color, it might be a sign that they are not receiving enough light. Adjust their position accordingly.

Feeding

Pothos and Philodendron benefit from regular feeding during their active growing season, typically between spring and fall. Use a balanced, liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every four to six weeks. In the winter, reduce feeding to once every two months or as needed. Regular feeding will encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

Video Guide