Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a highly favored houseplant, celebrated for its cascading foliage and adaptable nature. Despite its reputation for resilience, many plant enthusiasts encounter the common issue of dropping leaves. This phenomenon signals environmental stress or suboptimal care. Addressing the underlying causes is the primary step toward restoring a Pothos to its full health.
Common Causes of Dropping Pothos Leaves
Watering Issues
Insufficient water causes leaves to curl, crisp, and turn yellow or brown before dropping, as the plant conserves moisture by shedding older foliage. Conversely, overwatering leads to yellowing leaves, especially at the base, and soft stems. This deprives roots of oxygen, causing root rot and subsequent leaf decline.
Light and Temperature Stress
Both inadequate and excessive light cause Pothos leaf drop. Low light results in pale or yellow leaves and leggy growth due to insufficient photosynthesis. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch foliage, causing brown spots or a bleached appearance. Pothos prefer temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C and 29°C). Extreme fluctuations or temperatures outside this range shock the plant, leading to wilting, browning, or yellowing leaves.
Nutrient Deficiency and Pests
A lack of essential nutrients weakens the plant, causing yellowing or stunted leaves that drop. Common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, or scale insects feed on plant sap, weakening foliage. Infested leaves may show discoloration, deformities, or sticky residue before dropping.
Environmental Changes and Natural Aging
Pothos can experience temporary stress, known as repotting shock, after environmental changes like moving to a new pot. This disrupts the root system, causing some leaves to yellow and drop as the plant adapts. Additionally, older leaves, typically at the base or along mature vines, naturally yellow and fall off as the plant ages, redirecting energy to new growth.
Solutions for Dropping Pothos Leaves
Addressing Watering Problems
For insufficient moisture, establish a consistent watering routine: check the top 1-2 inches of soil for dryness before rewatering thoroughly. For overwatering, allow the soil to dry out significantly between sessions. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant, trim soft or mushy roots, and repot into fresh, well-draining soil.
Optimizing Light and Temperature
For light issues, move the plant to bright, indirect light, like an east-facing window or several feet from a south or west-facing one. If receiving too much direct light, relocate it to a filtered light area. To mitigate temperature stress, maintain a stable room temperature (65-85°F / 18-29°C) and protect the plant from cold drafts or vents.
Resolving Nutrient and Pest Issues
For nutrient deficiencies, apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half strength every 2-4 weeks during the active growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter. For pest infestations, isolate the Pothos and treat by wiping leaves with diluted neem oil or insecticidal soap as directed.
Managing Repotting Shock and Aging
To reduce repotting shock, handle roots gently. After repotting, place the Pothos in a stable environment with consistent indirect light and avoid excessive watering. If leaf drop is due to natural aging, no intervention is needed; simply prune yellowed leaves to maintain appearance and redirect energy to new growth.
Maintaining a Healthy Pothos
Maintaining a healthy Pothos involves consistent attention to its environment. Provide consistent, bright indirect light to support robust photosynthesis and strong growth, avoiding sudden changes in light exposure that can cause stress. Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation around the roots.
Establish a regular watering schedule, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out before rewatering, which prevents both overwatering and underwatering. Fertilize sparingly during active growth to provide essential nutrients without risking chemical burn. Rotate the plant periodically to ensure all sides receive even light exposure, promoting balanced growth.
Regularly inspect the leaves for early signs of pests or disease, addressing potential issues promptly. Pruning leggy stems can encourage a bushier growth habit and contribute to the plant’s overall vitality and appearance.