Pothos plants occasionally display wrinkled leaves, a common symptom indicating stress related to their water uptake or environmental factors. Understanding the underlying causes of this wrinkling is the first step toward restoring your plant’s vigor and lush appearance.
Why Pothos Leaves Wrinkle
Underwatering
When a Pothos plant experiences insufficient watering, its leaves wrinkle due to dehydration. Plant cells rely on turgor pressure, maintained by adequate water, to remain firm and plump. A lack of water causes these cells to lose internal pressure, resulting in a limp, shriveled appearance. Prolonged dryness can make the leaves feel dry and brittle. To assess soil moisture, insert a finger two to three inches deep into the potting mix; if it feels dry, the plant needs water.
Overwatering and Root Issues
Overwatering can also lead to wrinkled Pothos leaves, though the underlying problem differs. Excessive soil moisture deprives roots of oxygen, causing root rot. When roots rot, they cannot absorb water and nutrients, effectively starving the plant even in saturated soil. Signs of root rot include mushy, dark roots, a foul odor, and yellowing leaves that feel limp or soft, distinguishing them from crisp, underwatered leaves.
Low Humidity
Pothos plants, native to tropical environments, thrive in moderate to high humidity. When the ambient air is too dry, moisture evaporates too quickly from the plant’s leaves. This rapid water loss can cause the leaves to appear less turgid and slightly wrinkled, particularly along their edges or tips. This issue is often more pronounced in heated or air-conditioned indoor environments where humidity levels are typically lower.
Temperature Extremes
Sudden or extreme temperature fluctuations can stress a Pothos, leading to leaf wrinkling. Exposure to cold drafts, such as from open windows in winter, or placement near heat sources like radiators, causes rapid environmental changes. These temperature shocks interfere with the plant’s ability to regulate its water balance, potentially leading to wilting and visible wrinkling. Pothos generally prefers temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C).
How to Revive Wrinkled Pothos
Adjusting Watering Practices
To address underwatering, provide a thorough watering until water drains from the pot’s bottom holes. Allow the top two to three inches of soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root issues. Always ensure the pot has adequate drainage.
Addressing Root Health
If root rot is suspected, gently remove the Pothos from its pot and inspect the roots. Healthy roots are firm and white; rotted roots appear mushy, brown, or black and may smell foul. Trim away any affected roots using clean, sharp scissors. Repot the plant into fresh, well-draining potting mix, ensuring the pot has ample drainage holes.
Increasing Ambient Humidity
To increase ambient humidity, place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, ensuring the pot does not sit directly in the water. Grouping plants together can also elevate humidity. A small room humidifier provides a consistent and effective solution.
Optimizing Temperature Conditions
Position your plant away from direct drafts from windows or doors, and heating or cooling vents. Pothos thrives in consistent room temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 85°F. Avoiding sudden temperature shifts helps prevent stress that could lead to leaf wrinkling.
Preventing Future Wrinkling
Consistent care practices are important for preventing future leaf wrinkling. Regularly check soil moisture, allowing the top layer to dry before watering. Provide a stable environment with appropriate humidity and avoid significant temperature fluctuations. Monitoring your plant for early signs of distress allows for prompt adjustments.