If you’re new to the world of houseplants, Devil’s Ivy (also known as Pothos, Epipremnum, and Scindapsus) is a great choice for you. Not only is it incredibly easy to care for, but it also adds a touch of greenery and beauty to your home. In this article, we’ll explore the top tips and essential information you need to know to keep your Devil’s Ivy thriving.
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Top Tips & Info
- Care Difficulty – Very Easy
- Provide a bright, indirect location with the absence of direct sun.
- Allow the soil’s top third to dry out in between waters, reducing this in the autumn and winter.
- Fertilise using a ‘Houseplant’ labelled feed every four waters in the spring and summer, reducing this to every six in the colder months.
- Keep an eye out for Spider Mites that’ll form webs on the under-leaves of the plant.
- Repot every three years using a ‘Houseplant’ soil and the next sized pot.
- Keep an eye out for any loss of pre-existing variegations (patterns), as too-dark locations will cause them to fade & disappear.
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Location & Light
Providing a bright, indirect location is crucial for the health of your Devil’s Ivy. Too much direct sunlight can harm the plant, leading to root rot and fading of its beautiful variegations. Remember, the amount of light and the current season will determine how often you water your plant. Shadier areas require less frequent watering, while brighter locations need more moisture.
Watering
Allow the top third of the soil to dry out in between waters, reducing this further in the autumn and winter. Under-watering can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, or sudden flower loss. On the other hand, over-watering can lead to yellowing or loss of leaves, stunted growth, or a rotten base. Always use lukewarm water, and if using tap water, let it stand for at least 24 hours to settle the temperature and chemicals.
Humidity
Devil’s Ivy thrives in average room humidity, so there’s no need for extra misting. However, you can perform a gentle hose-down at monthly intervals to hydrate the leaves and remove dust particles.
Fertilisation
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Fertilise every four waters during the growing period, reducing this to every six in the autumn and winter. Using a ‘Houseplant’ labelled fertiliser ensures your Devil’s Ivy receives all the necessary nutrients for growth.
Common Issues
- Loss of variegations is caused by too little light. Move the plant to a brighter area to bring back the colourful patterns.
- Root rot is a common issue caused by overly moist or waterlogged soil. Check the roots for a healthy appearance and take immediate action if they appear brown and mushy.
- Pests like Spider Mites and Mealybugs can infest your Devil’s Ivy. Thoroughly check the plant and follow the appropriate links for guidance on eradicating these pests.
- Curled leaves and brown leaf-edges may indicate a lack of water and over-exposure to the sun.
- Yellowing lower leaves are a sign of over-watering and too little light.
Origins
Devil’s Ivy belongs to the Arecaceæ family and has gone through several name changes over the years. It originates from the Society Islands and is known for its hard-to-kill nature and ability to remain green even in dark locations.
Temperature
Devil’s Ivy prefers temperatures between 12° – 30°C (54° – 86°F) and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. When placing it outdoors, make sure it doesn’t receive more than an hour of direct sunlight per day.
Spread and Pruning
If given a structure to climb, Devil’s Ivy can reach heights of up to 8m. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain healthy growth. Remove yellow or dying leaves and plant debris to create better-growing conditions.
Propagation
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Devil’s Ivy can be propagated through seed or vine cuttings. Vine cuttings are the easiest method. Simply cut a healthy vine below a node and place it in water or a well-draining potting mix. Once roots develop, pot the cutting and provide appropriate care.
Repotting
Repot your Devil’s Ivy every three years using a ‘Houseplant’ labelled compost and a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Avoid disturbing the aerial roots when repotting. If you want to train your plant to climb a moss pole, never remove the attached aerial roots.
Pests & Diseases
Keep an eye out for mealybugs, spider mites, scale, and thrips that may infest your Devil’s Ivy. Common diseases include leaf-spot disease, botrytis, and root rot.
Toxicity
Devil’s Ivy is classified as poisonous due to calcium oxalate crystals found in the plant. While ingestion can cause vomiting and other symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical assistance if large quantities are consumed.
Now that you have all the information, you’re ready to start your journey with Devil’s Ivy. It’s an excellent choice for beginners, and with proper care, it will thrive in your home. Remember, this versatile plant brings both beauty and a touch of nature into your living space. Happy growing!
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