Wondering why your plant is looking extra sad lately?
We have the answersand solutions.
Luckily, as they are very forgiving, you could (almost) always revive a dying pothos.
Photo:Firn/Getty Images
Here are the most common reasons your pothos plant is dying and what to do for each problem.
Overwatering Your Pothos
Berendsen says that overwatering is the most common reason for Pothos to deteriorate.
“If your pothos is overwatered, you’ll need to act quickly.
Once root rot has festered in your pothos, it is a quick downhill road.”
“Water the soil only after it has dried to the top inch,” she says.
It’s important tomaintain a consistent watering schedulewithout letting the plants go too dry.
Without drainage, the roots are quick to fall victim to root rot," she explains.
Sometimes, people may upcycle items to use as planters and forget to drill out drainage holes.
Whether it’s getting too much light or not enough, both can cause issues.
“This will inevitably result in bare, leggy stems and small, deformed growth.”
Dobbs warns that pothos getting too much direct sunlight scorches leaves and causes them to brown and yellow.
So, you should probably find the right balance when it comes to lighting.
“Using the correct soil medium is key to growing healthy and happy houseplants,” Berendsen says.
Berendsen recommends growing your pothos in well-drained, airy soil mixes.
“These amendments will enhance drainage and promote healthy roots and leaves.”
Berendsen recommendsusing a neem oil solutionto treat and prevent pests.
“Mix 1 tsp of neem oil with 1 tsp of dishwashing soap in a gallon of water.
Use this in a spray bottle to help control pests.
Advanced infestations are best treated with a specific pesticide,” she instructs.
Dobbs warns that bacteria and/or fungus can be another reason your pothos is dying.
The solution to saving a rootbound pothos is to upgrade its living space.
You willneed to repot it into a larger containerso it has adequate room to grow.
Incorrect Climate Conditions
Dobbs says that pothos can get stressed due to exposure to extreme temperature changes.
“The ideal temperature for pothos is between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
While they are resilient, they are tropical plants after all, so consistent warmer temperatures are best.
Dobbs says pothos should be kept away from air conditioners, radiators, and drafty windows.
They should also maintain a warm and consistent environment.
Identifying issues early on can increase the chances of saving your plant.
Keep an eye out for these main signs your pothos isn’t healthy.
This is commonly the result of mineral buildup from tap water or low humidity.
Underwatering may also result in brown, crispy leaves.
“Deformed and brittle growth will result from insufficient sunlight,” Berendsen explains.
“Wilting usually takes place if your pothos is underwater,” says Berendsen.
“If the wilting is mild, it should subside within a few hours after watering.”
“If the soil feels dry, go ahead and water.
