Pothos plants are popular, resilient houseplants. However, they are susceptible to sunburn when exposed to excessive light. Understanding how to identify, address, and prevent sunburn is important for maintaining your pothos’ health and beauty.
Identifying Sunburn Damage
Sunburn on pothos leaves manifests as distinct signs. Affected areas typically show discoloration, ranging from yellowing to bleached white spots, and even browning or blackening. These damaged sections often feel crispy, dry, or brittle to the touch.
Damage usually appears on leaves directly exposed to light, predominantly on the top of the plant. In contrast, issues like overwatering typically cause general yellowing and soft leaves, while nutrient deficiencies often lead to more uniform discoloration or specific patterns across the entire plant.
Understanding Sunburn Causes
Sunburn on pothos primarily results from overexposure to intense light. Direct sunlight, especially when magnified through a window, can quickly scorch the leaves. South or west-facing windows, which receive the strongest afternoon sun, are particularly prone to causing this type of damage.
Another common cause is a sudden change in light conditions. Moving a pothos from a low-light environment to a bright, sunny spot without gradual acclimation can shock the plant and lead to immediate sunburn. Water droplets on leaves can also act as tiny lenses, intensifying sunlight and causing localized burns. Dehydration can also make a plant more susceptible to sun damage, as insufficient moisture makes leaves more vulnerable.
Recovering Sunburnt Pothos
If your pothos shows signs of sunburn, move it immediately to a more appropriate lighting condition. A location with bright, indirect light is ideal, such as a few feet away from an east or north-facing window, or behind a sheer curtain. This helps prevent further damage and allows the plant to stabilize. Severely damaged leaves (extensive discoloration, crispy texture) will not recover.
Pruning these leaves redirects the plant’s energy towards new, healthy growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove the affected leaves at their base. After relocating and pruning, check the soil moisture; a sunburnt plant may have altered hydration needs. Water thoroughly if the top inch or two of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering, as stressed plants are more susceptible to root issues.
Preventing Future Sunburn
Preventing future sunburn involves understanding and providing the ideal light conditions for pothos. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural habitat where they grow under a tree canopy. Placing your pothos near an east-facing window, or several feet away from a south or west-facing window, often provides this balanced light. Sheer curtains can effectively diffuse intense sunlight from brighter windows.
Gradual acclimation is important when changing a plant’s light exposure. If you are moving a pothos from a darker area to a brighter one, or bringing it outdoors, gradually increase its light exposure over several weeks. This allows the plant to adapt to higher light levels without experiencing shock. Maintaining consistent watering also contributes to overall plant health and resilience against environmental stressors. Regularly rotate your pothos to ensure all sides receive balanced light, promoting even growth and reducing the risk of localized sun damage.