Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade Pothos are two popular cultivars of the Pothos plant that are known for their unique and attractive variegated foliage. While both plants share some similarities, they also have some distinct differences in terms of appearance and care requirements. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed comparison of Glacier Pothos vs Pearls and Jade Pothos, including their appearance, growth habits, and ideal care conditions, to help you decide which one is right for your home or office.
Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade Overview
Glacier Pothos Characteristics
Glacier Pothos is a slow-growing vining plant with small heart-shaped leaves. Its leaves feature green, silver, and gray speckles, which can appear similar to the Pearls and Jade variety. This pothos variant is known for its bushy growth habit that makes it an excellent choice for potted plants on tables or desks. One distinguishing feature of Glacier Pothos is its oval-shaped leaves as compared to other varieties such as N’Joy and Pearls and Jade Pothos. Being considered rarer and harder to come by, the Glacier Pothos has a more silvery-green coloring than its counterparts [source].
Pearls and Jade Characteristics
Pearls and Jade Pothos, also called Epipremnum aureum ‘Pearls and Jade,’ is a popular variety known for its green and white variegated foliage. Developed by the University of Florida in 2009, this cultivar was bred from Marble Queen Pothos. Unlike Jade Pothos, which features all-green leaves, Pearls and Jade has a unique combination of variegation patterns [source].
This variety shares the same leaf shape and pattern with N’Joy Pothos, but its white areas exhibit splashes of green resembling Marble Queen Pothos. This characteristic sets Pearls and Jade apart from other Pothos plant varieties [source].
When comparing Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade, it should be noted that Glacier Pothos has smaller leaves. Although the variegation patterns of these two plants can appear similar, their growth habits and distinctive characteristics make them unique in their own ways [source].
Cultivation and Care
Light Requirements
Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade Pothos have similar light requirements. Both varieties thrive in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate lower light conditions. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves of these plants.
Watering Techniques
When it comes to watering, both Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade Pothos need to be kept on the drier side. Water the plants thoroughly, allowing the excess water to drain out, then let the soil dry out somewhat before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s essential to find the right balance for each plant.
Soil Preferences
These two Pothos varieties have similar soil preferences. A well-draining, peat-based potting mix is ideal for their growth. It’s essential to ensure adequate drainage, as stagnant water or overly wet soil can result in root rot.
Fertilizing
Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade Pothos benefit from regular fertilizing to support their growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). In the fall and winter months, reduce the frequency of fertilizing to encourage the plant’s natural growth cycle.
Temperature and Humidity
Both Pothos varieties prefer moderate temperatures, ranging from 60-75°F (16-24°C). Avoid placing the plants near drafts, air conditioning vents, or heating sources, as fluctuations in temperature can harm them.
In terms of humidity, these plants can adapt to average home humidity levels. However, they appreciate slightly higher humidity, around 60%. You can increase humidity around the plants by placing them on a tray of water and pebbles or using a room humidifier.
Propagation Methods
Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade Pothos are two varieties often confused due to similarities in appearance. To grow and care for these plants, it’s important to understand their propagation methods. This section will discuss stem cuttings and air layering as two popular methods applied to these pothos varieties.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cutting propagation is the most common and easiest method, specifically for both Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade Pothos. Here’s how:
- Select a healthy stem: Choose a 4 to 6 inches long stem, ensuring it has at least 4 leaves for Pearls and Jade Pothos. For Glacier Pothos, pick a cutting with a couple of nodes and leaves.
- Prepare the cutting: Remove leaves near the bottom node (for Glacier Pothos) or any extra leaves for a Pearls and Jade Pothos.
- Root in water: Place the prepared cutting in a jar or glass filled with water, allowing it to root.
- Provide suitable conditions for growth: Ensure the cuttings receive plenty of indirect sunlight and warmth to encourage root development properly.
After two weeks or when roots start to form, the cuttings can be transferred to a pot with well-draining soil for further growth.
Air Layering
Another propagation technique used for houseplants is air layering, although it’s less common for pothos varieties. Here’s a brief outline:
- Select a healthy stem: Similar to stem cutting, choose a healthy stem in the parent plant with several leaves.
- Observation: Look for a node, which is the part of the stem where leaves are attached.
- Creation of air layer: Carefully peel off a small section of the outer bark, exposing the inner stem layer without removing the entire branch. This step is best performed using a sanitized, sharp knife.
- Apply root-promoting hormone: Brush the exposed stem with a rooting hormone to promote root growth.
- Cover with peat moss: Cover the exposed inner layer with moistened sphagnum moss, wrapping it in plastic wrap to retain moisture.
- Secure and monitor: Use tape or twist ties to secure the wrap, keeping an eye on humidity and moisture until roots are visible in the moss.
Once roots are established, remove the layered portion from the parent plant and pot the new growth separately. Although both methods can yield successful propagation, the stem cutting method remains the simpler and more popular choice for these pothos varieties.
Pest and Disease Management
Common Pests
Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade Pothos may encounter similar pests that can harm the plants. Some common pests these plants might face include:
- Spider mites: Small, spider-like creatures that feed on plant leaves, causing discoloration and damage.
- Mealybugs: Small, white insects that can leave behind a sticky substance on leaves, which can stunt plant growth.
- Scale insects: Pests that attach to plant stems and leaves, sucking sap and causing damage.
To effectively manage these pests, you can:
- Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests or damage.
- Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to dislodge pests and clean the plant.
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to combat persistent infestations.
Disease Prevention
To prevent diseases in both Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade Pothos, a proactive approach is necessary. Follow these tips to minimize disease risks:
- Ensure proper watering: Both plant varieties prefer slightly moist soil. Avoid overwatering and underwatering, as this can cause stress and create an environment for diseases to thrive [source].
- Maintain good air circulation: Proper airflow around the plants can prevent the development of fungal diseases.
- Avoid crowded conditions: Give each plant enough space to grow and avoid overcrowded plantings, which can lead to the spread of disease.
- Use clean containers and tools: Always use clean pots and sterilized tools when handling or repotting your plants to minimize the risk of introducing pathogens.
By following these pest and disease management practices, you can maintain the health and beauty of your Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade Pothos plants.
Styling and Decorating Tips
Hanging Baskets
Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade are great plants to use in hanging baskets as they provide an attractive element of greenery and unique leaf patterns. Both varieties can be combined in one basket for a stunning mix of green and white variegated leaves. These plants are low-maintenance and thrive in moderately lit environments, making them a popular choice for home and office decorations [source]. Ensure the hanging baskets have proper drainage to avoid root rot and overwatering issues. Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Tabletop Display
When showcasing Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade in a tabletop display, consider choosing smaller pots or containers to keep their growth in check. This makes it easier to maintain the plants and prevents overcrowding. Place these attractive pothos varieties near a window with indirect sunlight, as direct sunlight may cause the leaves to sunburn or lose their variegation patterns.
To create an eye-catching tabletop display, pair the Glacier Pothos and Pearls and Jade with other plants such as:
- Snake plants
- ZZ plants
- Ferns
This combination of plants offers a blend of textures, shapes, and sizes, adding visual interest to your tabletop arrangement.
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
