The Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular indoor plant known for its heart-shaped foliage and trailing growth habit. Nicknamed Devil’s Ivy, this resilient tropical vine is popular due to its forgiving nature. While it tolerates a range of conditions, the primary factor determining its long-term health and vibrant growth is a consistent, measured approach to watering. Understanding how and when to provide moisture is fundamental to preventing common plant care issues.
Determining When to Water
Establishing the correct watering frequency begins not with a calendar schedule, but with assessing the moisture level of the soil. The preferred state for a Golden Pothos is where the root zone is allowed to dry out significantly between applications of water. This practice mimics its natural environment and prevents the stagnant conditions that harm its roots.
The most reliable way to gauge soil moisture is by performing the “finger test,” which involves inserting a finger about one to two inches deep into the soil mix. If the soil feels damp or cool at this depth, withhold watering. You should only proceed with watering once the top 50 to 75 percent of the potting medium feels completely dry to the touch.
As an alternative to the finger test, a soil moisture meter can provide a more precise reading, which is particularly helpful for larger pots. These devices measure the electrical conductivity or resistance of the soil to indicate moisture levels at various depths. Using either method ensures that the plant is only watered when it has utilized the majority of the available moisture.
The Essential Watering Technique
When the soil indicates it is time for a drink, the goal is to fully saturate the entire root ball to encourage robust root development. Slowly apply water to the surface of the potting mix until it starts to flow freely from the drainage holes at the bottom of the container. This thorough soak ensures that any mineral salts that have accumulated in the soil are flushed out.
Allow the plant to sit for 15 to 20 minutes after the initial soak to allow excess water to drain completely into the saucer or collection tray. Immediately discard the collected water to ensure the roots do not sit in standing water. Prolonged contact with retained water deprives the roots of oxygen, leading to root rot.
While standard tap water is usually acceptable, if your local supply is heavily treated with chlorine or fluoride, allowing the water to sit uncovered overnight can help these volatile chemicals dissipate. Using room-temperature water is recommended to prevent shocking the plant’s delicate root system.
Adjusting Watering Based on Environmental Factors
The rate at which soil moisture evaporates and is used by the plant is heavily influenced by the surrounding conditions, requiring adjustments to the frequency determined by the finger test. Plants placed in brighter, indirect light will use water much faster than those situated in lower light environments. The increased light intensity drives higher rates of photosynthesis and subsequent water transpiration through the leaves.
Seasonal changes also significantly impact a Pothos’s water needs. The plant enters a period of slower growth during the cooler, darker winter months. During this dormancy period, the plant uses less water, meaning the time between watering sessions should be extended to prevent over-saturation. Conversely, during the active growing season of spring and summer, the plant will require more frequent applications of water.
The material of the plant’s container plays a role in how often you need to water. Porous materials like unglazed terracotta wick moisture away from the soil, accelerating the drying process. Pots made of non-porous materials, such as glazed ceramic or plastic, retain moisture longer, meaning the soil will stay wet for a greater duration.
Recognizing Signs of Watering Stress
A Golden Pothos communicates its distress, and learning to differentiate between the visual cues of overwatering and underwatering is essential. Underwatering typically presents as droopiness where the entire plant looks limp and deflated, but the leaves remain firm. In severe cases, the leaf edges or tips may become dry and develop a crispy, brown appearance.
In contrast, overwatering symptoms often start with the yellowing of lower leaves, a condition known as chlorosis, which progresses upward. The droopiness associated with overwatering is usually accompanied by soft, mushy stems and leaves that feel limp to the touch, indicating cell damage. The presence of black spots or a foul odor from the soil are further indicators of root damage due to excessive moisture.