Can Pothos Live Outside? +7 Ideas with Pictures

Welcome to our blog post on the topic of whether Pothos plants can thrive outside. If you’re considering taking your Pothos plant outdoors, it’s important to understand the factors that can affect its growth and survival.

In this post, we’ll explore the USDA zones, pros and cons, growing ideas, and potential pests to help you make an informed decision. Plus, we’ll discuss sunburn and cold resistance, two key considerations for outdoor Pothos plants. Let’s get started!

Exploring the Natural Habitat of Pothos

Originally hailing from the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific, Pothos is a natural climber. In its native habitat, it wraps around trees and shrubs, using them as support to reach sunlight. This means that Pothos can adapt to various levels of light, making it a great option for both bright and low-light environments.

The humid conditions of the tropical rainforest provide an ideal setting for pothos, which prefers environments with ample moisture. The thick canopy overhead helps maintain high humidity levels, creating an environment conducive to the plant’s growth.

Pothos absorbs moisture through its roots and aerial roots, utilizing the water available in the surrounding air and collecting on surfaces such as tree trunks or branches.

Feature(s)	Description(s)
Natural Habitat	Solomon Islands in the South Pacific
Growing Seasons	All Year Round (Solomon Islands) / Spring-Summer (USDA 10-12)
Humidity	50-70% humidity level; mist leaves or use a tray of water
Light	Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight
Watering	Allow top inch of soil to dry out before watering
Temperature	50-85°F (10-29°C)
Soil Type	Moist, Well-draining

Can Pothos Survive Outdoors?

Yes, absolutely! Pothos plants can thrive outdoors if you provide them with the right conditions. They love warm and humid environments, which makes them perfect for USDA zones 10-12, where temperatures are consistently mild throughout the year.

If you live in a cooler climate, you can still enjoy having your pothos outdoors during the spring, summer, and early fall, as long as the temperatures stay above 65°F. When winter arrives and it gets too chilly, simply bring them back indoors for a cozy wintering.

To ensure your pothos thrive outdoors, it’s important to provide them with the right amount of light and moisture. They prefer bright, indirect sunlight, so placing them under trees or in areas with filtered light, like porches, is ideal.

Avoid exposing them to harsh, direct sunlight, as it can scorch their leaves. When it comes to watering, it’s best to err on the side of underwatering. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.

Pros and Cons Growing Pothos Outside

If you’re considering adding some greenery to your garden or outdoor space, growing Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) outside might just be the perfect addition. This hardy and versatile plant, known for its lush foliage and easy care requirements, can thrive in various outdoor settings, adding a touch of natural beauty to your surroundings.

Let’s explore the pros and cons of growing Pothos outside, so you can make an informed decision and watch your outdoor space bloom with greenery!

Pros:

Discover the joys of cultivating these vibrant plants in your outdoor space. From their captivating foliage to their air-purifying prowess, Pothos bring a touch of natural beauty and health benefits to any garden or patio setting.

Let’s explore the wonderful advantages of growing Pothos outdoors and how they can elevate your outdoor oasis.

Cons:

While these resilient plants thrive in various environments, they do have their sensitivities and challenges when grown outside.

From temperature fluctuations to pest encounters, let’s delve into the potential drawbacks of cultivating Pothos in your outdoor garden and how to overcome them for a flourishing green space.

So, should you invite Pothos to your outdoor bash? It all depends on your climate, the care you can offer, and what you’re hoping to achieve

By weighing the pros and cons, you can decide if these adaptable plant friends are the perfect fit for your outdoor oasis.

6 Growing Pothos Outside Ideas

Let’s explore some fun and imaginative ideas for growing Pothos outside that will have your garden bursting with life and vitality.

#1 Hanging Basket Displays

Hang Pothos in decorative baskets from pergolas, trellises, or under the eaves of your porch or patio. The cascading foliage creates a stunning visual display.

• Pros: Adds a vibrant splash of color, creates a lush and cascading effect.
• Cons: Requires regular watering and maintenance.

#2 Vertical Gardens

Create a living wall or vertical garden by mounting Pothos on a trellis or wire grid. This adds depth and dimension to your outdoor space.

• Pros: Maximizes vertical space, creates a unique and eye-catching feature.
• Cons: Requires proper support and regular pruning.

#3 Container Gardening

Plant Pothos in colorful containers or decorative pots and place them on steps, patios, or balconies. Mix and match different container shapes and sizes for added visual appeal.

• Pros: Perfect for small outdoor areas, easy to move around, and experiment with different arrangements.
• Cons: Requires regular watering and proper drainage andas your plants grow, their roots may outgrow the container.

#4 Ground Cover

Use Pothos as a ground cover to fill in bare spots or shady areas in your garden. It creates a lush carpet of foliage that adds texture and visual interest.

• Pros: Low maintenance, covers bare spots effectively.
• Cons: May require regular pruning to prevent overgrowth.

#5 Topiary and Espalier

Get creative with pruning and shaping Pothos into topiary forms or espalier designs. This adds a touch of whimsy and sophistication to your outdoor décor.

• Pros: Allows for artistic expression, adds a unique focal point.
• Cons: Requires regular pruning and shaping.

#6 Mixed Planters

Combine Pothos with other outdoor plants, such as ferns, ivy, or colorful annuals, in mixed planters or hanging baskets. This creates visually stunning focal points that enhance your outdoor living space.

• Pros: Adds variety and color, creates a dynamic display.
• Cons: Requires careful consideration of plant compatibility and watering needs.

#7 Fence Fabulous

Attach planter boxes or hanging pots to your fence and fill them with Pothos plants. This will not only beautify your fence but also provide privacy and create a green backdrop for your outdoor activities.

• Pros: Pothos plants are known for their lush foliage, which can act as a natural privacy screen.
• Cons: Require occasional pruning and care to keep them looking their best

With these friendly and creative ideas, growing Pothos outside becomes a fun and rewarding opportunity to unleash your creativity and transform your outdoor space into a lush and inviting haven. So go ahead, let your imagination run wild and enjoy the beauty of Pothos in your garden!

Moving Pothos Indoors to Outdoors Tips

Moving your indoor Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) to an outdoor setting can be a wonderful way to enhance its growth and bring a touch of greenery to your outdoor space.

However, it’s important to ensure a smooth transition for your plant. Here are some friendly tips to help you successfully move your Pothos from indoors to outdoors:

Gradual Acclimatization

Ease your Pothos into its new outdoor environment gradually. Start by placing it in a shaded or partially shaded area outdoors for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the exposure to sunlight over time. This helps prevent shock and allows the plant to adjust to the brighter light and outdoor conditions.

Note: Gradual acclimatization reduces the risk of leaf burn and helps the plant adapt to the new environment. This process can take time and requires patience.

Choose the Right Spot

Select a suitable location for your Pothos outdoors, considering its light requirements and environmental preferences.

Opt for a spot with bright, indirect sunlight or dappled shade to avoid scorching the leaves. Ensure the area has good air circulation and is protected from strong winds or extreme temperatures.

Note: Choosing the right spot ensures optimal growth and prevents damage from harsh weather conditions. Limited availability of suitable spots in your outdoor area may require some adjustments.

Container Considerations:

If planting your Pothos in a container outdoors, choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Use a well-draining potting mix to promote healthy root growth and avoid waterlogged soil. Consider using a decorative container that complements your outdoor décor and provides enough space for the roots to grow.

Note: Container planting allows for flexibility in positioning and provides control over soil conditions. Containers may require more frequent watering and maintenance compared to planting directly in the ground.

Watering and Maintenance

Monitor soil moisture levels and water your outdoor Pothos as needed, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. During hot summer months, you may need to water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out completely.

Regularly prune any dead or yellowing leaves to promote new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.

Note: Proper watering and maintenance ensure the health and vitality of your Pothos. Regular maintenance may require time and effort.

Protection from Pests

Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites, which may be more prevalent outdoors. Inspect the foliage regularly and treat any infestations promptly using organic pest control methods or insecticidal soap.

Note: Regular monitoring and pest control prevent infestations from damaging your plant. Pest control measures may need to be repeated periodically.

By following these friendly tips, you can successfully transition your indoor Pothos to an outdoor environment and enjoy its lush foliage and vibrant growth.

Remember to be patient, observe your plant’s needs, and provide the necessary care to ensure its well-being. With a little effort, your Pothos will thrive in its new outdoor home, adding beauty and greenery to your outdoor space for years to come.

Conclusion

Ready to bring some greenery to your outdoor oasis? Give your Pothos plant a chance to soak up the sun and stretch its vines in the open air.

Whether it’s cascading from a hanging basket, climbing a trellis, or adding a pop of color to a mixed container garden, Pothos has the versatility and charm to elevate any outdoor setting.

With a little love and attention, your outdoor Pothos will reward you with lush foliage, improved air quality, and a sense of natural beauty. So, let your Pothos plant thrive in its new outdoor home – your garden will thank you!