There’s something about Jade Pothos that makes it one of my all-time favorite indoor plants. When I first started my plant journey back in 2020, I wasn’t exactly what you’d call a green thumb. It took a while (and a few lost leaves!) before I really got the hang of caring for houseplants. But the Jade Pothos? It stuck with me.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best Jade Pothos, based on my own experience and lessons learned along the way. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned plant lover, you’ll find plenty of tips here to help you pick out a strong, healthy plant that’ll thrive in your home.
What is a Jade Pothos?
Before diving into the details, let’s get to know this beauty a bit better. Jade Pothos is a variety of the Pothos plant, known for its deep, rich green leaves that give it an elegant and bold look. Unlike the more commonly seen Golden Pothos, with its yellow-green variegation, Jade Pothos sticks to pure, glossy green tones.
This makes it perfect if you’re after a plant with lush foliage without the extra fuss. It’s also one of the easiest houseplants to care for—ideal for someone who might not have the time or energy to babysit their plants constantly (me in 2020!). It can handle low light, isn’t too picky about humidity, and forgives you if you miss a watering or two.
How To Choose The Best Jade Pothos
When it comes to selecting a Jade Pothos, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. Here’s what I look for when I’m picking out a new plant friend:
1. Leaf Health and Appearance
The leaves are the first thing that should catch your attention. Healthy Jade Pothos leaves are deep green, shiny, and firm to the touch. If you notice any yellowing, browning, or black spots, these could be signs of underlying issues like overwatering, pest infestations, or even nutrient deficiencies.
Check out our guide on Understanding Leaf Spot for more details on identifying and solving these problems.
What to avoid:
- Leaves that are limp or wilted.
- Visible spots, discoloration, or holes in the leaves.
- Pale or patchy areas (a potential sign of poor lighting or stress).
During one of my nursery visits, I was mesmerized by a Jade Pothos with massive, glossy leaves—only to notice the hidden yellowing under the leaves. A small detail, but it saved me from taking home a plant that might have struggled.
2. Size and Growth Potential
You’ll want to pick a size that fits your space, but don’t be afraid to start small. Jade Pothos grows relatively fast, especially if placed in bright, indirect light. If you’re someone who enjoys watching your plant grow and flourish (like me), opting for a smaller plant can be incredibly rewarding.
If you prefer a more established look from day one, mature plants with trailing vines are the way to go. Just be mindful of space—those vines can stretch quite a bit!
3. Inspect the Root Health
This is something I learned the hard way after a few beginner mistakes. The health of the roots tells you a lot about the overall well-being of the plant. If possible, gently remove the plant from its nursery pot to check the roots. They should be firm and light-colored, not mushy or blackened.
Red flags:
- Roots that are tightly bound or circling the bottom of the pot.
- Any signs of root rot (which appears as dark, mushy roots).
Roots should be firm and light-colored. If you notice dark or mushy roots, it may be a sign of root rot. Learn more about How to Prevent Root Rot here.
4. Potting Conditions Matter
While I’ve picked up many Jade Pothos in those simple plastic nursery pots, it’s always worth considering what kind of soil and container they’re in. Plants in well-draining soil with good drainage holes in the pot will be much happier. If the soil feels too soggy, the plant may already be suffering from overwatering—a major cause of root rot.
For more details, check out our guide on How to Choose the Best Soil for Indoor Plants.
Where to Buy Your Jade Pothos: Online vs. Local Nurseries
Local Nurseries: My Go-To for Healthy Plants
One of my favorite weekend activities is wandering through local plant nurseries. There’s something special about seeing the plants in person, getting advice from the nursery staff, and making sure the plant you pick is as healthy as can be. Plus, you’re supporting local businesses, which is always a win!
Online Shopping for Jade Pothos: What to Watch For
That said, online plant shopping has its perks, especially if you’re hunting for specific varieties that aren’t available locally. But, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure you get a plant that arrives healthy and happy:
- Reputation: Only buy from sellers with solid reviews and clear return policies.
- Shipping times: The less time your plant spends in transit, the better.
- Packaging: Check that the seller uses proper packaging to protect the plant from damage during delivery.
I’ve ordered plants online a few times, and while the experience has mostly been positive, there’s always a little risk. Look for well-packaged, well-reviewed sellers to minimize potential issues.
Caring for Your New Jade Pothos
Once you’ve picked out the perfect Jade Pothos, the next step is making sure it thrives in its new home. Here’s how to care for it:
1. Light Requirements
Jade Pothos loves bright, indirect light, but it can handle lower light levels if needed. Just be aware that in lower light, its growth might slow down, and the leaves won’t be quite as large or vibrant.
2. Watering Tips
This plant likes its soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes and can lead to root rot. I typically water mine once every 1-2 weeks, depending on the season and indoor climate.
Here’s a guide on How to Water Indoor Plants Properly.
3. Humidity and Temperature
Jade Pothos isn’t too fussy about humidity, but it’ll appreciate a bit more moisture in the air. I’ve found that it does best in rooms that aren’t too dry. As for temperature, as long as your home stays in a comfortable range (65-85°F), your plant will be happy.
4. Fertilizing
I like to fertilize my Jade Pothos about once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. It’s not a heavy feeder, so you don’t need to overdo it.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
Even the best plants run into issues from time to time. Here’s what I’ve encountered:
- Yellowing Leaves: This usually means the plant is either getting too much water or not enough light. For more insights, check out our post on how to prevent yellowing indoor plant leaves.
- Pests: Jade Pothos can occasionally attract pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Regularly wiping the leaves with a damp cloth helps prevent this.
- Root Rot: If you suspect overwatering, repot the plant in fresh soil and a pot with better drainage.
Propagating Jade Pothos for More Plants
The great thing about Jade Pothos is how easy it is to propagate. Simply take a cutting from a healthy vine, place it in water or moist soil, and wait for roots to grow. It’s incredibly rewarding to create new plants from your existing one.
I’ve propagated several Pothos plants from just a few cuttings, and it’s always exciting to see those roots start to develop. Propagating Jade Pothos is simple and rewarding. Follow this easy guide to propagating indoor plants to grow new plants from cuttings.
Lastly
Choosing the perfect Jade Pothos isn’t just about looks; it’s about finding a healthy, happy plant that’ll thrive in your space. Whether you go small or large, in-store or online, trust your instincts and enjoy the process of adding this beautiful plant to your collection.
Got any questions or experiences to share? I’d love to hear about your Jade Pothos adventures in the comments!
