Pothos - Care Sheet

Overview

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular, hardy tropical vine native to the Society Islands of French Polynesia. Known for its attractive, glossy, heart-shaped leaves often variegated with yellow or white, it is widely grown indoors as a trailing or climbing houseplant. Pothos is prized for its ease of care, ability to thrive in low light, and its air-purifying qualities. It is often called Devil’s Ivy due to its vigorous growth and resilience in challenging conditions.

Quick Facts

Light

Pothos thrives in bright, indirect light, such as near east- or north-facing windows. It can tolerate low light conditions but growth will slow and variegation may fade. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves or cause them to turn pale green. For south- or west-facing windows, place the plant a few feet away or use sheer curtains to filter light.

Water

Water pothos when the top 2.5 cm (1 inch) of soil feels dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and leaf yellowing. In winter, reduce watering frequency. Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. The plant is tolerant of occasional drying out but does not like to sit in soggy soil.

Humidity

Pothos prefers moderate humidity but adapts well to typical indoor humidity levels. Dry air may cause leaf edges to brown slightly. To increase humidity, mist leaves occasionally or place the plant near a humidifier or pebble tray with water.

Temperature

Ideal temperatures range from 18 to 29°C (65 to 85°F). Avoid exposure to temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or sudden cold drafts, which can damage the plant. Pothos can tolerate typical indoor temperature fluctuations but does not like freezing conditions.

Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining potting mix such as a standard houseplant soil with added perlite or orchid bark to improve aeration. Pothos prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH. Choose pots with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation at the roots.

Feeding

Feed pothos with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during spring and summer growth periods. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows. Over-fertilizing can cause leaf burn or salt buildup in soil.

Repotting

Repot pothos every 1 to 2 years or when roots become crowded and start to grow out of drainage holes. Choose a pot 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) larger in diameter. Repotting refreshes soil nutrients and encourages healthy growth. Spring is the best time for repotting.

Propagation

Pothos is easily propagated by stem cuttings. Cut a 10–15 cm (4–6 inch) section with at least 4 nodes. Root cuttings in water or directly in moist potting mix. Roots typically develop within 2–4 weeks. Once established, transplant cuttings to pots and care for as mature plants.

Common Problems

Yellowing Leaves

Usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Let soil dry out between waterings and ensure pot drains well to prevent root rot.

Brown Leaf Tips

Often due to low humidity, underwatering, or salt buildup from fertilizer. Increase humidity, water consistently, and flush soil occasionally to remove salts.

Loss of Variegation

Insufficient light can cause variegated leaves to revert to solid green. Provide brighter indirect light to maintain variegation.

Pests (Mealybugs, Scales)

Inspect regularly for pests. Remove by wiping leaves with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs or use insecticidal soap.

Leggy Growth

Occurs when plant stretches for light. Move to a brighter spot and prune back to encourage bushier growth.

Toxicity & Pet Safety

Pothos contains insoluble calcium oxalates and is toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets if ingested, causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep plants out of reach of pets and children. Handle with care to avoid skin irritation from sap.

Seasonal Care

During spring and summer, pothos grows actively and benefits from regular watering, feeding, and occasional pruning to maintain shape. In fall and winter, reduce watering and stop fertilizing as growth slows. Keep the plant away from cold drafts and heating vents. Wipe leaves periodically to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.

Quick Tips

• Provide bright, indirect light for best variegation and growth.
• Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes.
• Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer.
• Propagate easily from stem cuttings to expand your collection.
• Keep away from pets due to toxicity concerns.
• Prune leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.