The Pothos, or Epipremnum aureum, is a resilient houseplant, often nicknamed Devil’s Ivy. The most frequent cause of its decline is root rot, which stems from overwatering. The choice of the container—specifically its material, size, and drainage—is the most significant factor in managing soil moisture and preventing this common issue. Selecting the correct pot establishes an optimal environment, making proper watering easier for the caretaker.
Pot Material Matters
The pot material directly impacts how quickly the soil dries out, which is important since Pothos prefers to dry out between waterings. Terra cotta, or unglazed clay, is porous and allows water to evaporate through its walls, wicking moisture away from the soil. This makes it a good choice for beginners or those who water generously, as it helps mitigate the risk of overwatering and root rot.
Plastic and glazed ceramic pots are non-porous and do not allow moisture to escape through the walls. These materials retain water longer, keeping the soil damp for extended periods. While this can be beneficial in very dry environments, it increases the risk of waterlogging. If using a non-porous pot, check the soil’s moisture level diligently before watering again.
Selecting the Correct Size
Choosing a pot that is too large, known as “overpotting,” contributes to root rot. When a small root system is placed in a large container, the excess soil holds water the roots cannot absorb quickly. This perpetually wet soil creates an anaerobic environment, suffocating the roots and promoting fungal growth.
When repotting, increase the container diameter by only one to two inches from the current size. This small increase provides space for new root growth without introducing an unmanageable amount of unused soil. The correct pot size ensures the soil-to-root ratio is balanced, allowing the soil to dry out uniformly between watering cycles.
Essential Drainage Considerations
A drainage hole at the bottom of the pot is a requirement for a Pothos planted in soil. This allows excess water to escape after watering, preventing the soil from becoming saturated and waterlogged. Without drainage, water collects in the lower pot portion, starving the roots of oxygen and leading to rot.
For aesthetic purposes, the functional pot (with drainage holes) is often placed inside a decorative container called a cachepot. If using this method, ensure the inner pot is slightly elevated. The cachepot must be completely emptied of accumulated water shortly after the plant finishes draining. Never allow the Pothos to sit directly in standing water, as this defeats the purpose of the drainage holes.
Knowing When to Repot
A Pothos does not need frequent repotting, often thriving for a year or two in the same container. Signs indicate when it is time to move up a size. The most obvious signals are roots growing out of the drainage holes or roots circling tightly around the inside of the pot.
If the plant’s growth slows noticeably, or if the soil dries out much faster than usual, the plant is likely root-bound. Repotting should be done during the active growing season, such as spring or early summer. This timing allows the plant to recover and establish new roots quickly in the fresh soil, providing renewed resources and space for continued growth.