Golden pothos, also known as devil’s ivy, is a favorite among plant enthusiasts for its striking heart-shaped leaves and forgiving nature. While it’s often considered one of the easiest houseplants to care for, watering it properly is key to keeping it healthy and vibrant. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause droopy leaves and slowed growth.
So, how often should you water golden pothos? The answer depends on several factors, including your plant’s environment, the season, and the pot it’s in. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, understanding these nuances will help you establish a consistent watering routine that meets your plant’s needs.
In this guide, I’ll explore the ideal watering schedule for golden pothos, the signs to watch for when it’s thirsty, and tips to ensure you never overdo it. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to grow a thriving pothos plant.
About Golden Pothos
Golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular and easy-to-care-for houseplant native to Southeast Asia. Known for its heart-shaped, glossy leaves with golden variegation, it thrives in a variety of indoor conditions. It’s a fast-growing vine that can trail or climb, making it versatile for various spaces. Golden pothos is highly resilient, tolerating low light and irregular watering, though it prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil mix. This plant is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a great addition to homes and offices. Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for both beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts.
What Makes Golden Pothos Special?
Golden pothos, often called devil’s ivy, is special for its versatility and beauty. Its heart-shaped leaves are adorned with vibrant green and golden-yellow patterns, adding a touch of elegance to any space. This hardy plant is incredibly adaptable, thriving in various light conditions, from bright, indirect light to lower, shaded spots.
One of the reasons Golden Pothos stands out is its low-maintenance nature. It’s an excellent choice for beginners, as it tolerates occasional neglect while still remaining lush and vibrant. Whether grown in soil or water, it showcases rapid growth, with vines that can cascade beautifully from hanging baskets or climb up supports.
Golden pothos also contributes to indoor air quality, as it’s known for its air-purifying qualities, removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the environment. Its aesthetic appeal, resilience, and health benefits make golden pothos a beloved houseplant that effortlessly elevates any home or office.
Basic Care Requirements
Golden pothos is one of the easiest houseplants to care for, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned plant lovers. To ensure Pothos vibrant growth, focus on a few basic care requirements.
Light: Golden pothos thrives in bright, indirect light but is adaptable to low-light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Watering: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue, so ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot.
Humidity: This plant enjoys moderate humidity but tolerates typical indoor conditions well. If the air is too dry, occasional misting can help.
Temperature: Keep the plant in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). It doesn’t like cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Soil: Use well-draining potting soil. A mix of regular potting soil with perlite or sand works great.
With these simple care steps, your golden pothos will flourish and reward you with lush, cascading vines.
Why Watering Matters for Golden Pothos
Watering golden pothos correctly is crucial for its health and vitality. Here’s why it matters:
- Essential for Nutrient Absorption
- Water helps dissolve nutrients in the soil, allowing the roots to absorb and transport them to the plant. Proper hydration ensures lush and vibrant growth.
- Prevents Overwatering Issues
- Excessive water can cause the roots to suffocate, leading to root rot. This condition prevents the plant from taking up nutrients and can cause yellowing leaves and decay.
- Avoids Underwatering Problems
- Insufficient water causes the leaves to droop, curl, or dry out. Persistent dehydration stunts growth and weakens the plant over time.
- Maintains Cell Structure
- Water keeps the plant’s cells turgid, which helps the leaves stay firm and upright. Without adequate water, the plant loses its strength and vitality.
- Supports Growth in Changing Environments
- Factors like light, temperature, and humidity affect the plant’s watering needs. Adjusting your routine ensures the pothos adapts to seasonal and environmental changes.
Factors That Influence Watering Frequency
The watering needs of golden pothos vary depending on several environmental and care factors. Understanding these can help you establish the perfect routine for your plant:
- Climate and Temperature
- In warmer, drier climates, soil dries out faster, requiring more frequent watering. Cooler temperatures or high humidity slow evaporation, reducing watering needs.
- Light Levels
- Pothos in bright, indirect light will need more water due to faster soil drying. Plants in low light use water more slowly, meaning less frequent watering.
- Soil Type
- Well-draining soil dries quicker than compacted, poorly aerated soil. A mix with perlite or sand ensures the plant doesn’t sit in water for too long.
- Pot Size and Material
- Larger pots retain moisture longer, while smaller ones dry out faster. Terracotta pots wick moisture from the soil, requiring more frequent watering, unlike plastic or glazed pots.
- Seasonal Changes
- During spring and summer, the growing season, pothos drinks more. In fall and winter, growth slows, and the plant requires less water.
- Humidity Levels
- High indoor humidity reduces watering frequency, as the plant absorbs moisture from the air. In drier environments, it needs watering more often.
How to Know When Your Pothos Needs Water
- Visual Signs
- Drooping Leaves: One of the most noticeable signs that your pothos needs water is when its leaves start to droop. Healthy pothos leaves should remain upright and firm. If they become limp or soft, it’s a sign of dehydration.
- Yellowing Edges: If the edges of the leaves start turning yellow or brown, it’s an indicator that your plant is underwatered. The leaves may also become crispy or dry to the touch.
- Curling Leaves: When pothos is thirsty, its leaves may curl or fold inward to conserve moisture. This is another visual cue that the plant needs water.
- Soil Test
- Finger Test: A simple and effective way to check if your pothos needs water is by sticking your finger 1–2 inches into the soil. If the soil feels dry at this depth, it’s time to water.
- Moisture Meter: For more precise testing, use a moisture meter. It will tell you exactly how much moisture is in the soil and help prevent over- or underwatering.
- Weight of the Pot
- Lifting the pot can give you an idea of its moisture level. When the soil is dry, the pot will feel lighter because there is less moisture. If it’s heavy, the soil is still holding water.
Watering Golden Pothos Indoors vs. Outdoors
Indoors:
- Watering Frequency: Indoor pothos typically need to be watered every 1–2 weeks, but this can vary depending on the light, humidity, and temperature inside. Plants in brighter light may require more frequent watering.
- Humidity and Airflow: Indoor air, especially in air-conditioned spaces, can be dry. If your pothos is in such an environment, it may need more frequent watering. Avoid placing it near drafts or heating vents, as these can cause the soil to dry out more quickly.
Outdoors:
- Watering Frequency: Outdoor pothos usually need more frequent watering due to exposure to direct sunlight, wind, and temperature fluctuations. They may require watering every 2–4 days, particularly during hot weather.
- Soil and Drainage: Outdoor pots often dry out faster than indoor ones. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent the roots from sitting in water for too long. Keep an eye on the moisture level and water when the soil begins to dry out.
Seasonal Watering Adjustments
Spring and Summer:
- During the warmer months, pothos is in its active growing phase. The plant will require more frequent watering with longer days and stronger sunlight. Typically, you’ll need to water when the top inch of soil feels dry every 1–2 weeks.
- Increased Evaporation: The warmer the weather, the faster the soil dries out. Keep an eye on your plant’s water needs during these months.
Fall and Winter:
- As the weather cools and the days shorten, pothos’ growth slows down. This means the plant uses less water and the soil retains moisture longer. During these months, reduce watering frequency and allow the soil to dry out more before rewatering.
- Dormancy Period: Pothos typically enters a semi-dormant state in the winter, so it doesn’t require as much water. Water only when the top layer of soil is completely dry.
How to Water Golden Pothos Properly
- Check Soil Moisture: Always check the soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger in the soil or use a moisture meter to make sure it’s dry at least an inch deep. If the soil is still moist, wait before watering again.
- Use Room-Temperature Water: Water your pothos with room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots. Cold water can stress the plant, while very hot water can damage the roots.
- Water Thoroughly: When you water, do so thoroughly until water starts draining from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root system receives moisture.
- Empty the Saucer: After watering, always empty the saucer under the pot to prevent the roots from sitting in standing water. This helps avoid root rot and ensures the plant doesn’t absorb excess water.
Using Self-Watering Pots
Self-watering pots can be an excellent solution for those who want to ensure their pothos gets a steady supply of moisture without the risk of overwatering. These pots have a water reservoir that provides moisture to the soil as needed.
- Consistent Moisture: Self-watering pots can help maintain consistent moisture levels, which reduces the likelihood of underwatering or overwatering.
- Perfect for Busy Plant Owners: If you forget to water regularly, a self-watering pot can be a game-changer. It ensures that your pothos gets the right amount of water without constant attention.
- Monitor the Reservoir: Check the water reservoir regularly. It’s essential to refill it before it runs dry to keep the plant properly hydrated.
Common Mistakes in Watering Golden Pothos
- Overwatering:
- Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes people make with pothos. When the plant sits in waterlogged soil, the roots can rot, and the leaves will turn yellow or brown. Ensure your pot has proper drainage and let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Underwatering:
- While pothos is forgiving, prolonged underwatering can lead to leaf drop and stunted growth. If you notice that the leaves are wilting or becoming crispy, it’s a sign that the plant is not getting enough water.
- Watering Without Checking the Soil:
- Sometimes, it’s tempting to water the plant without checking the moisture level. Always test the soil first to avoid watering when it’s unnecessary.
- Watering with Cold Water:
- Using cold water directly from the tap can shock the roots. Always use room-temperature water to prevent stressing the plant.
Troubleshooting Watering Issues
- Yellowing Leaves (Overwatering or Underwatering):
- If your pothos’ leaves turn yellow, it could be a sign of either overwatering or underwatering. Yellow leaves from overwatering will be soft and mushy, while those from underwatering will be dry and crispy. Adjust your watering schedule based on what you observe.
- Root Rot (Overwatering):
- If you notice a foul smell or the plant is drooping despite being watered, you may have root rot. Check the roots and trim away any rotting parts. Repot the plant with fresh soil and ensure better drainage.
- Crispy Leaf Edges (Underwatering):
- Crispy edges on leaves typically indicate that the plant hasn’t been getting enough water. Ensure you’re watering your pothos adequately, especially during hotter, drier conditions.
FAQs
1. How do I prevent root rot in my pothos?
Ensure the pot has drainage holes, and never let your pothos sit in standing water. Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry.
2. Can golden pothos tolerate low light?
Yes, golden pothos is adaptable and can thrive in low light, but it grows best in bright, indirect light.
3. How often should I water my pothos in winter?
Water less frequently in winter, as the plant’s growth slows down. Check the soil before watering to avoid overwatering during this season.
4. Can I water my pothos with tap water?
Yes, but let the water sit for 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate before using it to water your plant.
5. What if my pothos is getting too leggy?
If your pothos becomes leggy, it may not be getting enough light. Move it to a brighter spot or trim back the long vines to encourage bushier growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper watering is crucial for the health and growth of your golden pothos. By understanding factors like light, temperature, and season, you can tailor your watering routine to meet your plant’s needs. Always check soil moisture before watering, use room-temperature water, and ensure good drainage to avoid overwatering or underwatering. Adjust your care depending on the season, with more frequent watering in warmer months and less in winter. Self-watering pots can also be a great option for consistent hydration. With these practices, your golden pothos will thrive, adding beauty and freshness to your home.
