How to Grow and Care for Cebu Blue Pothos
Overview
The Cebu blue pothos (Epipremnum pinnatum ‘Cebu Blue’) is a stunning variety of pothos known for its unique silvery blue-green leaves. Native to the Cebu island in the Philippines, this easy-to-grow plant is a popular choice for indoor gardeners.
Growth and Appearance
Cebu blue pothos exhibits two distinct growth phases: juvenile and mature. In the juvenile phase, the plant produces small, elongated oval leaves with a silvery blue-green color. Mature plants, which are typically only observed when grown outdoors, develop larger green leaves with fenestrations (holes).
Care Requirements
Light: Cebu blue pothos thrive in medium to bright indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn their leaves.
Soil: These plants require moist but well-draining soil. A mixture of one part potting soil, one part orchid bark, and one part perlite provides ideal drainage.
Water: Allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings. Water thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain from the bottom of the pot. Reduce watering slightly during winter months when the plant is dormant.
Temperature and Humidity: Cebu blue pothos prefer warm temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). They also appreciate high humidity, which can be increased by using a humidifier or placing the plant in a humid environment such as a bathroom or laundry room.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the spring and summer. Stop fertilizing in early fall when the plant enters dormancy.
Propagation
Propagating Cebu blue pothos is easy and can be done in water or sphagnum moss.
Water Propagation:
- Take stem cuttings with 5-6 leaves.
- Remove the lower 2-3 leaves to expose nodes.
- Place cuttings in water, submerging nodes while leaving leaves above water.
- Change water weekly. Roots should appear within 2-3 weeks.
- Transfer cuttings to soil once roots are 1-2 inches long.
Sphagnum Moss Propagation:
- Soak sphagnum moss in water for 10-15 minutes.
- Take stem cuttings with 5-6 leaves.
- Remove the lower 2-3 leaves to expose nodes.
- Drain excess water from moss and place in a container.
- Place cuttings in moss, ensuring nodes are covered and leaves are exposed.
- Cover container with a plastic bag, leaving leaves out.
- Mist moss weekly. Roots should form within 2-3 weeks.
- Transfer cuttings to soil once roots are 1-2 inches long.
Common Pests and Problems
Pests: Cebu blue pothos are susceptible to mealybugs, scale, and fungus gnats. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Problems:
- Yellow leaves: Can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or lack of light.
- Wilting or curled leaves: Usually indicates underwatering.
- Slow growth: May be due to insufficient light.
Additional Tips
- Climbing: Cebu blue pothos are natural climbers. Provide a moss pole or trellis for support, especially for mature plants.
- Toxicity: Cebu blue pothos is toxic to pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are Cebu blue pothos fast growers? Yes, under optimal conditions.
- Why do my Cebu blue pothos have yellow leaves? Yellow leaves can indicate a variety of problems, including overwatering, underwatering, or lack of light.
- Do Cebu blue pothos climb? Yes, they are natural climbers and require support when grown indoors.