Quick answer: To grow a money plant (pothos, Epipremnum aureum) faster, give it bright indirect light, water when the top inch of soil dries, feed it a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks in the growing season, and prune regularly to trigger bushier growth.

What Is a Money Plant?

In India the "money plant" is usually golden pothos, a fast-growing trailing vine grown in soil or water. It is easy to care for and roots readily from cuttings. Note that the sap is mildly toxic if chewed, so keep it away from pets.

Give It the Right Light

Light is the biggest factor in growth speed. Bright, indirect light produces dense, well-variegated leaves, while deep shade causes slow, leggy, pale growth. A few hours of gentle morning sun is fine; harsh afternoon sun can scorch leaves.

Watering for Fast Growth

Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Soggy soil suffocates roots and slows growth, while consistent light moisture in summer keeps the vine pushing new leaves. For money plants grown in water, change the water weekly to keep it oxygenated.

Feeding: The Real Growth Secret

Regular feeding makes a visible difference. During spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks. Adding plant nutrition products and occasional micronutrients keeps leaves glossy and green. A bio-stimulant or growth promoter can encourage stronger roots and faster shoot development.

Use Compost for Long-Term Health

Mixing well-rotted compost into the potting soil improves structure and feeds the plant slowly over time, supporting steady, healthy growth.

Prune to Make It Bushier

Money plants grow leggy if left untrimmed. Pinch or cut just above a leaf node every few weeks. This triggers side shoots, creating a fuller plant, and the cuttings can be replanted to make new vines.

Provide Support and Space

Train the vine on a moss pole or trellis. Climbing pothos often grows larger leaves and faster than trailing ones because the plant senses room to grow upward.

Common Reasons It Grows Slowly

Slow growth is usually caused by low light, cold temperatures, lack of feeding, or a root-bound pot. Move it to a brighter spot, feed it during the growing season, and repot once roots fill the container.

Temperature and Humidity

Money plants are tropical and grow fastest in warm rooms between about 18°C and 30°C. Growth slows sharply in cold weather, so keep them away from air conditioning vents and cold winter draughts. They enjoy moderate humidity; in very dry rooms, occasional misting or grouping plants together helps keep the leaves lush and green.

Clean the Leaves for Better Growth

Dust builds up quickly on the broad leaves of a money plant and blocks light. Wiping the leaves gently with a damp cloth every couple of weeks helps the plant photosynthesise more efficiently, which directly supports faster, healthier growth. Combined with bright light, regular feeding, and routine pruning, clean foliage helps your money plant reach its full, leafy potential indoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does money plant grow faster in water or soil?

Soil-grown plants usually grow larger and faster long term, but water culture is cleaner and easier indoors.

How can I make my money plant bushier?

Prune regularly above leaf nodes and provide bright indirect light. This forces multiple new shoots.

Why are the leaves turning yellow?

Yellow leaves usually signal overwatering or, occasionally, a nutrient shortfall. Let the soil dry and feed lightly.

Should I mist my money plant?

Occasional misting helps in very dry, air-conditioned rooms, but it is not essential. Good light, correct watering, and feeding matter far more for growth.

How long can a money plant live?

With basic care, money plants can thrive for many years and keep producing new vines, especially when repotted and pruned from time to time.