Have you ever seen a plant with pretty green vines that seems to grow everywhere? Chances are it's either a Pothos (pothos indoor plant) or a Philodendron (philodendron indoor plant)! Lots of people love them because they're easy to take care of, even if you've never had a plant before.
They look so similar, it's easy to get them mixed up! But don't worry! This pothos and philodendron beginner guide will help you tell them apart. We'll learn how to spot the differences and how to keep them happy and healthy!
Spot the Difference: How to Tell Pothos From Philodendron
So, how do you tell the difference between pothos and philodendron plants? It's like being a plant detective! Here's how to tell pothos from philodendron by looking closely at their leaves, how they grow, and a little trick involving new leaves.
Leaves: Like Twins, But Not Exactly!
Let's examine the leaves! Imagine you're comparing twins. They look alike, but there are tiny differences. This is a leaf texture and shape comparison. Pothos leaves feel a little thicker and waxier, almost like they have a shiny coating. Philodendron leaves are usually thinner and softer. Also, notice the pothos vs philodendron leaf shape difference at the top of the leaf! The "heart" shape of the Philodendron leaf is usually more pronounced, going in deeper.
How They Grow: Climbing vs. Hanging
The way they grow (growth habits of pothos vs philodendron) offers another important clue! Pothos love to hang down (pothos trailing), creating long, green curtains. Philodendrons, on the other hand, prefer to climb upwards if they have something to grab onto (philodendron climbing).
Both plants have little roots that stick out from the stems. These are called aerial roots. Philodendrons have bigger, stronger aerial roots that they use to really hold on tight when they're climbing.
Secret Leaf Trick
Here's a secret on how to identify pothos and philodendron! When a new Philodendron leaf grows, it emerges from a thin covering (a sheath) that eventually dries up and falls off. Pothos leaves simply pop out on their own, without any wrapper!
Pothos Plant Care: Easy Peasy!
Now that you can tell them apart, let's learn how to take care of Pothos (pothos plant care)! They're super easy, making this a perfect pothos plant care guide for beginners.
Light: Not Too Bright, Not Too Dark
Pothos thrive in bright, indirect light, but not direct sunlight, which can cause sunburn! They can also grow in lower light conditions, but they might not grow as quickly. When considering pothos light needs, find a spot that's just right.
Watering: Not Too Much, Not Too Little
Watering Pothos (pothos watering) is simple: avoid overwatering! Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. How to water pothos without overwatering? Think of it this way: if the soil is still damp on top, the plant has enough water and doesn't need more yet.
Soil and Food
Use pothos soil that drains well. This means the water can escape the pot easily. Like bathing the plant without letting it sit in the tub! You can also give it plant food every month or two during the spring and summer growing season (how to fertilize pothos for faster growth).
Trimming and Making New Plants
If your Pothos gets too long, you can trim it (pothos pruning)! This actually encourages bushier growth. And guess what? You can use the trimmings to make new plants (pothos propagation)! Simply place them in water, and they'll grow roots (how to propagate pothos plant in water).
Philodendron Care: A Little More TLC
Philodendrons require slightly more care than Pothos, but they're still relatively easy to manage. Let's learn about philodendron care.
Light for Philodendrons
Philodendrons (philodendron light) also prefer bright, indirect light. Some varieties can tolerate lower light than others, so research the specific type you have.
Watering Philodendron
Water Philodendrons (philodendron watering) when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting them sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Soil and Fertilizer for Philodendrons
Use a special soil mix (best soil mix for philodendron in pots) that ensures proper drainage, similar to Pothos (philodendron soil). The water should flow out of the pot freely. Feed them plant food during the spring and summer (how to fertilize philodendron safely).
Help Them Climb!
If you have a climbing Philodendron, provide it with something to climb on, such as a moss pole (tips for supporting philodendron climbing vines, how to use moss poles for philodendron). You can also prune it to manage its size and encourage a fuller appearance (philodendron pruning, how to prune philodendron for bushy growth).
Making More Philodendrons
You can create new Philodendron plants using the same method as Pothos – by rooting cuttings in water or soil (philodendron propagation)!
Pothos vs. Philodendron: Which One Should You Get?
So, which is easier to grow, pothos or philodendron? It really depends on your preferences and experience!
For Beginners
If you're new to the world of houseplants, Pothos are an excellent choice! They're like training wheels for plant care.
How Fast Do They Grow?
Both Pothos (pothos growth rate, how fast do pothos plants grow indoors) and Philodendrons (philodendron growth) exhibit relatively fast growth, but this is dependent on the amount of light they receive.
How Do You Want to Show Them Off?
Consider where you plan to display your plant! Pothos look fantastic cascading down from shelves or in hanging best containers for trailing houseplants (pothos trailing). Philodendrons create a visually appealing display climbing up walls (philodendron climbing) or on furniture, and thrive in the best planters for trailing houseplants.
Uh Oh! Problems and Solutions
Sometimes, plants can experience problems. Here's how to troubleshoot them!
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves (how to fix yellow leaves on pothos plant) usually indicate overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering accordingly.
Long and Skinny Vines
Long, skinny vines (how to fix leggy philodendron vines) suggest the plant needs more light.
Moving Big Plants
When repotting larger plants (repotting tips for long vines) into bigger pots, handle the roots with care.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Green Friends!
Whether you choose a Pothos or a Philodendron (pothos and philodendron beginner guide, beginner guide to caring for vining plants), they're certain to enhance the beauty of your home! And they even help purify the air (which plant purifies the air better)! Now you understand why pothos and philodendron are trnding! Enjoy your new green companions!
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