What is the best way to water a pothos?

The best way to water a pothos is to provide a consistent level of moisture to the soil without overwatering. Pothos plants prefer to have their soil slightly dry out between waterings, so it’s important not to keep the soil constantly wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues.

Here are some steps and tips to follow when watering your pothos:

1. Check the soil moisture: Before watering, it’s important to check if the soil is already moist. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil and see if it feels dry. If it’s still damp, hold off on watering for a bit longer.

2. Water thoroughly: When it’s time to water, make sure to thoroughly saturate the soil. Water until you see water draining out of the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root system gets hydrated.

3. Drain excess water: After watering, allow the excess water to drain out completely. Empty the saucer or tray underneath the pot to prevent the roots from sitting in water, which can lead to root rot.

4. Frequency of watering: As a general rule, water your pothos once a week during the warmer months when the plant is actively growing. In colder months, reduce the frequency to once every two weeks. However, it’s important to adjust the watering schedule based on the specific needs of your pothos and the conditions in your home.

5. Observe the plant: Keep an eye on your pothos and observe its behavior. If the leaves start to droop or if the soil feels extremely dry, it may be an indication that the plant needs water. However, if the leaves start to turn yellow or the soil feels consistently wet, it’s a sign of overwatering.

6. Use the right watering technique: When watering, aim to water the soil directly rather than spraying the leaves. Pothos plants can sometimes be susceptible to fungal diseases, so it’s best to keep the foliage dry.

7. Consider the environment: Factors such as temperature, humidity, and light levels can influence the watering needs of your pothos. For instance, if you have your pothos in a warm and dry room, you may need to water it more frequently compared to a cool and humid environment.

Remember, every plant and environment is unique, so it’s important to pay attention to the specific needs of your pothos. By providing the right amount of water and allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, you can help your pothos thrive and prevent any water-related issues.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.