The Epipremnum aureum, commonly known as Pothos, is a popular and resilient houseplant prized for its trailing vines and adaptability. Although Pothos is nicknamed “Devil’s Ivy” due to its hardiness, watering mistakes are the most frequent cause of issues for new plant owners. Establishing a proper watering routine requires understanding the plant’s unique needs rather than following a fixed calendar schedule. This guide details how to determine exactly when and how to hydrate your Pothos for continued health and vibrant growth.
Reading the Pothos’ Signals
The frequency of watering is determined by soil dryness, not by a specific number of days. A rigid schedule, such as watering weekly, often leads to over- or under-watering depending on the surrounding conditions. The primary way to check for moisture is by performing the “finger test.”
To accurately gauge moisture, insert your index finger one to two inches deep into the soil. If the soil feels dry at this depth, it is time to water the plant. A Pothos should be thoroughly watered only when the top 50 to 75% of the soil volume has dried out.
The plant also provides visual cues when it is thirsty, which is often a reliable indicator. When ready for water, the leaves may slightly droop or wilt, and the foliage can look dull or less glossy. This slight wilting signals that the plant’s cells are losing turgor pressure and will perk up quickly after a drink.
When watering, soak the soil completely until water begins to drain freely from the pot’s drainage holes. This ensures the entire root ball is evenly saturated, preventing dry pockets. Immediately empty the saucer or cachepot afterward so the plant is not left sitting in stagnant water, which causes root problems.
Environmental Influences on Moisture Needs
The rate at which Pothos soil dries is heavily influenced by its immediate environment, causing watering frequency to fluctuate constantly. Relying on constant monitoring rather than a schedule is necessary. Primary factors include light intensity, as plants in brighter, indirect light use water more efficiently and dry out faster.
For example, a Pothos in a bright eastern window might need water every five to seven days. The same plant in a low-light northern exposure may only need water every fourteen to twenty-one days. Higher temperatures and lower humidity also accelerate soil moisture evaporation and transpiration.
The container material plays a significant role in drying speed. Porous materials like unglazed terra cotta allow moisture to evaporate through the sides, drying the soil more quickly than non-porous plastic or glazed ceramic pots. Also, the plant’s seasonal growth cycle affects its water uptake.
The plant is actively growing in spring and summer, requiring more water. During the fall and winter, it enters a period of slower growth, necessitating a reduced watering frequency.
The Effects of Over and Under Watering
Improper watering is the leading cause of Pothos decline, and distinguishing between the symptoms of over- and under-watering is essential for intervention. Overwatering refers to the frequency of watering when the soil has not had sufficient time to dry. When soil remains constantly saturated, roots are deprived of oxygen, leading to the breakdown of root tissue known as root rot.
Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves that often feel soft and limp, sometimes with brown spots. The soil will remain visibly soggy or waterlogged for days after watering, and the stems may become mushy or discolored. If root rot is advanced, the plant may emit a foul odor from the soil, and the roots will appear dark and slimy instead of firm and white.
Conversely, an underwatered Pothos exhibits distinct symptoms that indicate dehydration. The leaves will droop dramatically, but instead of being soft, they may feel dry or crispy to the touch. The leaves often develop brown and crispy edges or tips, and the foliage may curl inward as the plant attempts to conserve moisture.
In cases of severe dryness, the soil will pull away noticeably from the sides of the pot and become hard and compacted. While Pothos are tolerant of some drought, chronic underwatering will stunt the plant’s growth and reduce the overall lushness of its vines.