Pothos plants are popular, adaptable houseplants, chosen for their trailing vines and attractive foliage. Despite their resilience, pothos have specific light needs. While they tolerate a range of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light, excessive direct sunlight causes significant damage. This damage, known as sunburn, negatively impacts the plant’s health and appearance.
Recognizing Pothos Sun Burn
Pothos sunburn presents distinct visual cues on the leaves. Affected areas often appear bleached, yellowed, or white. These discolored patches are typically found on the parts of the leaves directly exposed to intense light. As damage progresses, these areas can become brown and crispy.
Variegated pothos varieties may also experience a “washing out” of their vibrant patterns due to excessive light. It is important to distinguish these symptoms from other common plant issues, such as yellowing from overwatering or nutrient deficiencies. For example, overwatering often leads to general yellowing and soft, dark spots, while sunburn creates distinct bleached or crispy patches where light exposure is highest.
Why Pothos Get Sun Burn
Pothos suffer sunburn primarily from direct, intense sunlight. Their natural habitat is beneath tropical tree canopies, where they receive filtered or dappled light. When placed in full sun, especially magnified through a window, their leaves can scorch. This direct exposure, particularly during peak sun hours, damages chlorophyll within the leaves.
Chlorophyll, the pigment for photosynthesis, breaks down from excessive UV radiation and heat, resulting in the bleached or discolored appearance of sunburn. Sudden changes in light also contribute. Moving a pothos from a dim to a very bright environment without acclimation can overwhelm the plant’s leaves, as they are unprepared for the sudden increase in light and UV exposure.
Preventing Pothos Sun Burn
Preventing pothos sunburn involves careful light management. Pothos thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their native understory environment. An ideal light intensity for pothos ranges from approximately 10,000 to 20,000 lux. Optimal indoor placement is a few feet from a south or west-facing window, or closer to an east or north-facing window for gentler light.
Sheer curtains or blinds can diffuse strong direct sunlight, allowing adequate light without scorching. When relocating, acclimate the plant gradually over one to two weeks. This allows leaves to adjust to higher light levels and develop sun-resistant tissue, reducing damage. Rotating the plant periodically ensures even light exposure for all sides, promoting balanced growth.
Helping a Sun Burnt Pothos Recover
If a pothos shows signs of sunburn, move it to a location with bright, indirect light. This prevents further damage and aids recovery. Prune severely damaged leaves that are crispy, brown, or extensively discolored. Removing these helps the plant redirect energy to new, healthy growth, as damaged tissue will not recover. Use clean, sharp, sterilized scissors or pruning shears to prevent disease spread.
Proper watering is also important for recovery. Sun-stressed plants may lose moisture more rapidly, so check soil moisture regularly. Water thoroughly when the top two to three inches of soil feel dry, ensuring drainage from the bottom. Avoid overwatering, as the plant’s water absorption may be temporarily reduced, which could lead to root issues. New growth will gradually emerge to replace the damaged foliage, and the plant will regain its vibrancy over time.