The Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a popular houseplant cherished for its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. Its resilience makes it a favored choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. Understanding proper watering techniques is fundamental to its care, ensuring the plant thrives.
How to Tell When to Water
The most reliable method to determine if your Golden Pothos needs water is the “finger test.” Insert your finger about 1 to 2 inches deep into the soil near the base of the plant. If the soil feels dry at this depth, it is time to water. This approach ensures you are not watering a still-moist substrate, which can lead to problems.
Another indication is the pot’s weight; a dry pot feels noticeably lighter. Lift your pot after watering to get a sense of its hydrated weight for future comparison. While less precise than the finger test, subtle visual cues like a slight dullness in leaf sheen can also indicate thirst. However, the soil check remains the primary and most accurate indicator.
Factors Affecting Watering Frequency
Watering frequency for a Golden Pothos varies significantly based on environmental factors. Plants in brighter, indirect light transpire more and dry faster, requiring more frequent watering than those in lower light conditions.
Warmer temperatures and lower humidity increase evaporation from the soil, boosting the plant’s water needs. Conversely, cooler temperatures and higher humidity slow moisture loss. Pot size and material also play a role; smaller pots and porous materials like terracotta dry out more quickly than larger, plastic, or glazed ceramic pots.
The plant’s seasonal growth cycle also influences its water requirements. During active growth (spring and summer), Golden Pothos consumes more water due to increased metabolic activity. In dormant months (fall and winter), water needs decrease significantly. Soil type also matters; well-draining potting mixes (with perlite or bark) dry faster than dense, water-retentive soils.
Best Watering Practices
When watering, always do so thoroughly until excess water drains from the pot’s bottom. This ensures the entire root ball receives adequate moisture, promoting healthy root development. The pot must have drainage holes to prevent water accumulation around the roots.
Never allow your plant to sit in standing water; prolonged exposure leads to root rot. While most tap water is acceptable, filtered water or rainwater can be beneficial if your tap water is high in chlorine or other chemicals.
Bottom watering is an alternative: place the pot in a water tray, allowing the plant to soak up moisture through its drainage holes. This ensures even absorption and is useful for very dry soil. Allow the plant to soak for 20-30 minutes, or until the topsoil feels moist, then remove it.
Common Watering Problems and Solutions
Overwatering is a common issue, often manifesting as yellowing lower leaves, mushy stems, a foul soil smell, and fungus gnats. To remedy, significantly reduce watering frequency and ensure proper drainage.
If root rot is suspected (a severe consequence of prolonged overwatering), carefully remove the plant and inspect the roots. Healthy roots are firm and white or tan; rotted roots appear black, mushy, and may have a foul odor. Trim away any affected, mushy roots using clean, sharp scissors.
Signs of underwatering include drooping or wilting leaves, crispy brown edges, dullness, and visibly dry, compacted soil. A thorough watering is necessary. Ensure the soil is fully saturated, allowing excess water to drain completely. You might need to increase watering frequency slightly, especially during warmer months or if your plant is in bright light.