Insert a sprig of rosemary into your pothos soil: reasons it’s advised and what benefits it offers

Pothos and its rosemary companion

Pothos is a tough, forgiving houseplant and a favourite with indoor gardeners. It grows quickly, tolerates a range of conditions and does not need much attention, which makes it suitable for beginners and experienced plant owners alike.

Rosemary is not just for the kitchen; it is a fragrant herb whose aromatic oils can deter small pests (known in Spanish as “romero” with “aceites esenciales de aroma intenso”). Those strong-smelling oils make rosemary useful beyond cooking.

Why putting rosemary in pothos soil works

The idea comes from rosemary’s natural properties. Its aromatic oils and scent compounds make the substrate less attractive to common pot pests. These critters, including fungus gnats (sometimes called “mosquitoes of the substrate”) and other small root-affecting insects, thrive in damp potting soil, a common issue with indoor plants.

Adding rosemary allows growers to use its pest-repelling qualities in the pot. The smell acts as a natural deterrent that can reduce the likelihood of pests colonising the substrate, helping the pothos grow in a healthier environment.

How to try this with your pothos

This method is straightforward and low-cost. Follow these steps:

• Cut a fresh sprig of rosemary: Start with a small, fresh piece — fresher sprigs release more aromatic oils.
• Gently insert into the soil: Push the sprig into the potting mix near the edge of the pot so the oils can disperse without crowding the roots.
• Mind the depth: Don’t push it in too deep, as that could disturb the pothos roots.
• Replace when necessary: The sprig will dry out over time. Swap it for a new one if you want to maintain the pest-repelling effect.

As the sprig decays it also adds organic material to the soil, slowly contributing to the substrate as it decomposes.

Extra care tips for a healthy pothos

Rosemary can help with pests, but good pothos care covers a few basics:

• Provide indirect light: Keep the plant out of direct sun to avoid leaf scorch.
• Moderate watering: Don’t overwater — that is a common cause of rot.
• Use pots with good drainage: Proper drainage prevents water pooling at the roots and reduces the chance of root rot.
• Regularly clean the leaves: Wiping dust off helps the plant take in light and exchange gases more effectively.

If you want to learn more, you might also find these articles useful: “The most common mistake when watering succulents that can rot the roots” and “If you see dragonflies flying in your house or garden, we tell you what it means and why it is good”.

Dropping a rosemary sprig into a pothos pot is a small, natural method some gardeners use. It is an eco-friendly, low-cost way to help keep plants in good condition.