The Pothos, or Epipremnum aureum, is a resilient and easy-to-care-for houseplant, often called Devil’s Ivy for its hardiness. While this tropical vine tolerates a wide range of growing conditions, overwatering is the most frequent cause of decline. Overwatering creates an anaerobic environment around the roots, blocking oxygen uptake and inviting fungal pathogens that cause root rot. Successfully fixing an overwatered plant requires a swift diagnosis followed by targeted intervention.
Identifying the Signs of Overwatering
The first step is to accurately diagnose overwatering, as symptoms can sometimes mimic those of a thirsty plant. A Pothos suffering from too much moisture often displays yellowing leaves, typically appearing first on the lower, older foliage. The plant may also exhibit a wilted or drooping appearance, similar to underwatering, but the soil will feel saturated and heavy.
To confirm the diagnosis, check the soil; if it remains dark and moist several days after watering, the plant is likely overwatered. Overwatered leaves feel soft and limp, unlike an underwatered plant’s leaves, which feel dry and brittle. In advanced stages, the stems may develop soft, mushy, or brown spots, and the pot may emit a foul odor from the decaying organic matter.
Immediate Steps to Halt Damage
As soon as overwatering is confirmed, stop all watering immediately. The primary goal is to accelerate the drying process of the saturated soil. Empty any standing water collected in the plant’s saucer or cachepot, as allowing the roots to sit in runoff rapidly encourages rot.
To improve drainage and airflow, gently aerate the top layer of soil with a chopstick or skewer, being careful not to damage the roots. This introduces oxygen back into the substrate, which is necessary for healthy roots. Moving the plant to a location with warmer temperatures and bright, indirect light will encourage faster evaporation. If the soil is extremely soaked, carefully tilt the pot or use a rolled-up paper towel inserted into the drainage hole to wick out excess moisture.
Treating Advanced Root Damage
If the plant’s condition does not improve after a week, or if the stem bases are soft, advanced root rot has likely set in, requiring physical intervention. Carefully remove the Pothos from its pot and gently brush away as much soggy soil as possible from the root ball. Healthy Pothos roots are firm and typically white or light tan.
Roots affected by rot appear dark brown or black, feel slimy or mushy, and may easily disintegrate. Using sharp, sterilized scissors or shears, meticulously prune away all compromised, dark, and soft root material. Sterilization prevents the spread of pathogens to the remaining healthy tissue.
After trimming, allow the exposed root ball to air-dry for a few hours to help seal the cuts and discourage fungal growth. Repot the plant into a clean pot with ample drainage holes, using entirely fresh, well-draining potting mix. Avoid watering for at least a few days after repotting to give the roots time to adjust.
Establishing a Healthy Watering Routine
To prevent recurrence, the focus must shift to a proactive and sustainable watering strategy. The most reliable method is the “finger test,” which involves inserting a finger one to two inches deep into the soil. Only water when the soil feels completely dry at this depth.
When watering, apply it thoroughly until it drains freely from the bottom of the pot, ensuring the entire root system is hydrated. Immediately discard any water that collects in the drainage saucer, as sitting in runoff is a direct path back to overwatering. For optimal health, use a fast-draining soil mixture amended with materials like perlite or orchid bark to ensure proper aeration. Water frequency should also be adjusted seasonally, decreasing significantly during the winter months when growth slows.