Yes, you can bottom water a Pothos plant. This technique is suitable for the Epipremnum aureum houseplant, commonly known as Pothos or Devil’s Ivy. Proper watering is an important aspect of Pothos care, and this specific method offers several advantages over traditional top watering. This article will cover the mechanism of bottom watering, how to execute the technique, and how to determine the optimal timing for hydration.
Understanding Bottom Watering
Bottom watering is a method where a potted plant absorbs water from the base of the pot, rather than having water poured onto the soil surface. This technique is suitable for Pothos because it relies on a natural process called capillary action. Capillary action is the ability of water to move upward against the force of gravity through the tiny spaces, or pores, within the soil medium. The water molecules cling to the soil particles and climb upward, gradually saturating the potting mix evenly from the bottom up. This process ensures that the entire root ball receives moisture, even in cases where the soil has become hydrophobic or compacted.
Executing the Bottom Watering Technique
To begin bottom watering, you will need a container, such as a saucer, tray, or bowl, that is large enough to hold the Pothos pot. Fill this container with approximately 1 to 2 inches of room-temperature water. The water level should be high enough to cover the pot’s drainage holes. Place the Pothos pot directly into the water-filled container.
Allow the plant to soak for about 10 to 30 minutes; the exact duration depends on the pot size and the soil’s dryness. The soaking process is complete when the top layer of the soil visibly darkens or feels slightly damp to the touch.
Once this occurs, remove the pot from the water immediately. Let any excess water drain completely before returning the Pothos to its usual spot. Never allow the pot to sit in standing water for more than an hour, as prolonged saturation can lead to root issues.
Situations Where Bottom Watering Excels
This method offers benefits for Pothos plants, especially concerning root health and pest management. By encouraging water uptake from below, the roots are incentivized to grow downward toward the moisture source, which results in a stronger, more robust root system. This deep growth pattern helps the plant become more resilient overall.
Bottom watering is also an effective strategy for preventing fungus gnat infestations. Fungus gnats thrive in perpetually moist topsoil, as this provides a perfect environment for them to lay their eggs. Since bottom watering leaves the top centimeter or so of the soil drier, it disrupts the gnat life cycle, starving the larvae and making the surface hostile to adults.
The technique ensures a more uniform saturation of the potting medium, which is beneficial for dense root balls or soil mixes containing peat that can be difficult to re-wet from the top. It is wise to perform an occasional top-watering to flush out any accumulated mineral salts that capillary action draws to the surface.
Assessing Pothos Hydration Needs
Regardless of the watering method used, knowing when to water your Pothos is the most important factor in its care. Pothos plants prefer to dry out partially between waterings to prevent root rot, which is a common issue for this species.
A reliable way to check is the “finger test,” where you insert a finger about one to two inches deep into the soil. If the soil feels dry at that depth, it is time to water; if it still feels moist, you should wait a few more days.
Visual cues from the plant are also an indicator of thirst. A Pothos that needs water will often display drooping or wilted leaves and limp stems. Once watered, the leaves will typically perk up within an hour. Checking the soil moisture and observing the foliage are more accurate ways to determine watering frequency than sticking to a rigid calendar schedule.