What to do when pothos leaves turn brown?

When you notice that only a few leaves of your pothos plant are turning brown, there are a few steps you can take to address the issue. First, it’s important to assess the watering habits for your plant. Overwatering is a common cause of browning leaves in pothos plants.

To address this, you can try placing your plant in a dry and well-aerated space for a couple of days. This will help the soil to dry out and prevent further waterlogging. Make sure the plant receives indirect sunlight during this time. By allowing the soil to dry, you give the roots a chance to recover and prevent any potential root rot.

After the drying period, it’s crucial to adjust your watering schedule. Pothos plants prefer slightly moist soil, but they do not like to be constantly wet. Stick your finger into the soil to check for moisture levels. Water your plant only when the top 2-3 inches of the soil become entirely dry. This will help prevent overwatering and ensure the roots have enough oxygen.

When watering, it’s best to use room temperature water and thoroughly saturate the soil until water drains out of the drainage holes. Discard any excess water from the saucer to avoid waterlogging. Remember, it’s better to underwater than overwater, as pothos plants can tolerate short periods of drought.

In addition to adjusting your watering routine, you might also consider other factors that could contribute to browning leaves. Pothos plants thrive in bright, indirect light, but too much direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. If your plant is exposed to direct sunlight, try moving it to a location with more filtered light.

Temperature and humidity can also play a role in the health of your pothos plant. They prefer temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C) and appreciate moderate humidity levels. If your plant is exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations or low humidity, it may result in browning leaves. Consider adjusting the environmental conditions to better suit your pothos plant’s needs.

Lastly, if you notice any browning leaves that are completely dry and crispy, it’s best to trim them off. This will not only improve the appearance of the plant but also prevent any potential diseases from spreading.

When your pothos leaves turn brown, assess your watering habits and ensure you’re not overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out by placing the plant in a dry, well-aerated space for a few days. Adjust your watering routine to only water when the top 2-3 inches of the soil are dry. Consider other factors such as light, temperature, and humidity that may affect the health of your pothos plant. Trim off any completely dry and crispy leaves to promote new growth.

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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.