Pollinating Brazilian Pothos Plant:
A Guide to Boosting Yield

Brazilian Pothos is a popular indoor plant known for its lush green foliage and ease of care. It is also known by the name Golden Pothos or Devil’s Ivy. However, many people are unaware that this plant can produce flowers and even bear fruit if pollinated properly. In this article, we will discuss how to pollinate Brazilian Pothos plants to boost their yield.

Understanding Brazilian Pothos Flowers

Before discussing pollination techniques, it’s important to understand the flowers of Brazilian Pothos. The flowers of this plant are small, white, and inconspicuous. They are located on a spadix, which is a cylindrical structure in the center of the plant’s leafy stalk. The spadix is surrounded by a hood-like structure called the spathe, which is typically green or yellow in color.

Brazilian Pothos flowers are not self-fertile, meaning they require cross-pollination with another plant to produce fruit. This process can be achieved naturally through insects, but indoor plants may need some help with manual pollination.

Pollination Techniques

Hand Pollination

Hand pollination is the most common and effective method for pollinating indoor Brazilian Pothos plants. To hand pollinate your plant:

1. Locate the spadix in the center of the spathe.
2. Gently tap the spadix with a small brush or cotton swab to transfer pollen from the male flowers to the female flowers.
3. Repeat this process every few days until you see fruit developing on the plant.

Natural Pollinators

If you have outdoor Brazilian Pothos plants, natural pollinators like bees and other insects can help with cross-pollination. However, it’s important to note that indoor plants may not attract as many insects as outdoor plants.

Boosting Yield

Once your Brazilian Pothos plant has been successfully pollinated, there are a few things you can do to boost its yield:

Proper Lighting

Brazilian Pothos plants require bright but indirect light to thrive. Place your plant near a window that receives plenty of natural light but avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.

Adequate Watering

It’s important to keep your Brazilian Pothos plant properly watered to ensure healthy growth and fruit development. Water your plant when the soil feels dry to the touch but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

Fertilizing your Brazilian Pothos plant can also help boost yield. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce fertilization during the dormant season (fall and winter).

FAQ

Q: Can I eat the fruit from my Brazilian Pothos plant?

A: No, the fruit from Brazilian Pothos plants is not edible and can be toxic if ingested.

Q: How long does it take for Brazilian Pothos fruit to ripen?

A: It can take several months for Brazilian Pothos fruit to ripen after pollination.

Q: Do I need multiple plants to cross-pollinate my Brazilian Pothos?

A: No, you do not need multiple plants as long as you hand pollinate between male and female flowers on the same plant.

Q: Can I propagate my Brazilian Pothos from its fruit?

A: Yes, you can propagate your Brazilian Pothos from its seeds found inside the fruit. However, keep in mind that it may take several years for the new plant to reach maturity and produce fruit of its own.

In conclusion, pollinating your Brazilian Pothos plant can be a rewarding experience that yields beautiful fruit. By following these techniques and tips, you’ll be able to maximize your plant’s yield and enjoy its beauty for years to come.