Best Pothos Varieties for Low Light Hanging Baskets
Discover the best pothos varieties for low light hanging baskets! Learn which easy-care, trailing plants thrive in dim corners and bring lush greenery to your space.
Introduction
Did you know pothos plants can survive in near-darkness? These hardy, trailing beauties are perfect for sprucing up dim corners, offices, or apartments with limited sunlight. If you’ve struggled to keep plants alive in low-light spaces, pothos might just be your new best friend! In this guide, we’ll explore the top pothos varieties that flourish in hanging baskets even when sunlight is scarce. Get ready to transform your space with effortless greenery.
Top Pothos Varieties for Low Light Conditions
Golden Pothos
If you’re looking for a classic, foolproof plant for low light, the Golden Pothos is your best bet. Its heart-shaped leaves feature beautiful yellow and green variegation, and it’s one of the most adaptable plants out there. Even in dim corners, it keeps growing—just a little slower. Plus, it’s easy to propagate, so you can share cuttings with friends!
Jade Pothos
For those who prefer deep, lush green foliage, the Jade Pothos is a fantastic choice. Unlike its variegated cousins, this variety has solid green leaves, which means it doesn’t need as much light to maintain its color. It thrives in darker spots where other plants might struggle, making it perfect for bookshelves or north-facing rooms.
Marble Queen Pothos
If you love variegation but still need a plant that tolerates low light, the Marble Queen Pothos is a great middle ground. Its striking white-and-green leaves do prefer slightly brighter conditions than the Jade or Golden varieties, but it still adapts well to lower light. Just keep in mind that in very dim spaces, the white variegation may fade slightly.
Neon Pothos
Want to add a pop of color to a dark corner? The Neon Pothos delivers with its bright, almost fluorescent lime-green leaves. It stands out beautifully against darker backgrounds and still grows well in low light. Just be aware that in very dim conditions, the vibrant color might dull a bit—but it’s still a stunner.
Silver Satin Pothos
For something a little different, the Silver Satin Pothos (technically a Scindapsus, but often grouped with pothos) has stunning silvery markings on deep green leaves. It’s a slow grower in low light, but the shimmering foliage makes it worth the wait. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to dim spaces.
Why Pothos Thrives in Low Light
Pothos plants are natural survivors—they evolved in tropical forests where they grew beneath dense tree canopies, receiving only filtered light. This makes them experts at making the most of whatever light they get, even if it’s just ambient room lighting.
Another perk? Slow growth in low light means less maintenance. If you’re the type who forgets to water or prune, a pothos won’t hold it against you. It’ll just grow at a leisurely pace, staying manageable for longer.
And let’s not forget their adaptability to artificial light. Offices with fluorescent lighting? No problem. A dimly lit hallway? They’ll still hang in there (literally). This resilience is why pothos is a top pick for beginners and busy plant parents alike.
Care Tips for Low Light Pothos Hanging Baskets
Watering
The biggest mistake with pothos? Overwatering. These plants prefer to dry out between waterings. Stick your finger in the soil—if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, wait a few more days. Soggy roots lead to root rot, which is the fastest way to kill an otherwise hardy plant.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is key. Regular indoor plant soil mixed with perlite or orchid bark works well. Avoid dense, moisture-retentive soils—pothos roots need air as much as they need water.
Fertilizing
During the growing season (spring and summer), a monthly dose of balanced liquid fertilizer keeps your pothos happy. In fall and winter, hold off—plants in low light grow slower and don’t need the extra nutrients.
Pruning
If your pothos starts looking leggy (long vines with sparse leaves), don’t be afraid to trim it back. Cutting just above a leaf node encourages bushier growth. Plus, you can propagate the cuttings to grow new plants!
Cleaning
Dusty leaves block light absorption. Every few weeks, wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to keep them shiny and efficient at soaking up whatever light they can get.
Styling Ideas for Hanging Pothos in Dark Spaces
Macramé Hangers
A boho-chic macramé hanger adds instant style to a trailing pothos. Drape it in a dim corner near a window, and the cascading vines will soften the space beautifully.
Mixed Variety Baskets
Why settle for one type of pothos when you can mix them? Combine a Golden Pothos with a Jade or Neon in the same basket for a textured, multi-tonal effect. The contrast in leaf shapes and colors keeps things interesting.
Fairy Light Accents
String tiny fairy lights around your hanging pothos to highlight its trailing vines in dark areas. The soft glow makes it a cozy focal point in bedrooms or living rooms.
Bathroom Greenery
Pothos loves humidity, making it a great choice for bathrooms. Hang it near a shower or above a sink for a spa-like vibe—just make sure it gets at least a little indirect light.
Common Problems & Solutions
Yellow Leaves
Cause: Usually overwatering.
Fix: Let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Check for root rot—if present, trim damaged roots and repot in fresh soil.
Leggy Growth
Cause: Not enough light (even for a low-light plant!).
Fix: Move the basket to a slightly brighter spot or rotate it regularly so all sides get some light. Prune back long vines to encourage fullness.
Pests (Spider Mites/Mealybugs)
Cause: Dry conditions or poor air circulation.
Fix: Wipe leaves with neem oil or a mild soap solution. Increase humidity by misting occasionally or placing a small humidifier nearby.
By choosing the right variety and following these simple care tips, your pothos will thrive—even in the darkest corners of your home!
Conclusion
Pothos plants are the ultimate low-light champions, turning gloomy spots into lush oases with minimal effort. Whether you opt for the bold Neon or the elegant Marble Queen, these varieties will thrive in your hanging baskets with just basic care. Ready to brighten up your space? Grab a pothos and let those vines cascade!
