Plant Care

Can Pothos Grow in Water Permanently? Long-Term Hydroponics Guide

Last updated: October 30, 2025

Discover if pothos can live in water forever, plus care tips for long-term hydroponic growing, water changes, and decorative display ideas.

JJessica Chen

October 30, 2025

Golden pothos thriving permanently in water with healthy white root system — — Image © PlantReference.org 2026

Quick Answer

Pothos thrive in water permanently with weekly water changes and monthly liquid fertilizer. They develop specialized water roots different from soil roots.

TL;DR

Pothos can absolutely live in water permanently—many people successfully grow them hydroponically for years. Change water weekly, use liquid fertilizer monthly, and choose decorative vessels that complement your home. Water-grown pothos develop different root systems than soil-grown plants but remain equally healthy with proper hydroponic care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep pothos in water forever without soil?

Absolutely yes. Pothos can live their entire lives in water with proper care including weekly water changes and monthly liquid fertilizer. They develop specialized water roots that are actually more efficient than soil roots. I have pothos that have been growing in water for over 3 years continuously. The key is treating them as true hydroponic plants, not temporary propagations.

How often should I change the water for pothos growing permanently in water?

Change water completely every 5-7 days to prevent bacterial buildup and maintain oxygen levels. During water changes, rinse the roots gently under lukewarm tap water to remove debris. Top off with fresh water daily as needed to maintain consistent water levels covering at least 75% of the root system.

Do I need to fertilize pothos growing in water long-term?

Yes, fertilization is essential for permanent water growing since water contains no nutrients. Use liquid fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength every 3-4 weeks during growing season, every 6-8 weeks in winter. Without fertilizer, leaves gradually become smaller and pale yellow-green. Never use full-strength fertilizer as water-grown roots absorb nutrients very efficiently.

Why are my pothos roots turning brown in water?

Brown roots indicate bacterial problems from infrequent water changes or contaminated water. Change water immediately, trim away all brown or black roots with clean scissors, rinse remaining healthy roots thoroughly, and increase water changes to every 4-5 days until recovery. Healthy water roots should be bright white to cream colored and firm to touch.

What's the best container for growing pothos in water permanently?

Choose containers at least 6-8 inches deep with wide openings for easy water changes and root monitoring. Clear glass works best so you can see root health and water clarity. Avoid narrow-necked vases that trap roots or tip over easily. Wide-based cylinders, mason jars, or dedicated propagation stations provide stability and functionality for long-term growing.

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Tagged with

#pothos care #hydroponic houseplants #water propagation #pothos in water #indoor plant care #liquid fertilizer #plant propagation #houseplant problems #water-grown plants #Epipremnum aureum

Written By

Jessica Chen

Jessica transformed her small Brooklyn balcony into a thriving container garden after moving to New York City. What started as a pandemic hobby turned into a plant care consulting business serving urban apartment dwellers across the city. She specializes in small-space gardening, indoor plant troubleshooting, and helping clients keep houseplants alive in less-than-ideal conditions (dim light, dry heat, tiny spaces). Jessica completed a home gardening certificate program and shares her plant wins and failures on her modest Instagram following. Her partner, Maya, jokes that their apartment is now 40% plants, 60% living space. Jessica's passionate about making plant care accessible to renters who think they don't have room to garden.