Pothos does best when its light, watering, and soil are matched to its plant group. Use this quick routine as a starting point, then adjust for your home, season, and the plant's response.
| Light | Low to bright indirect light; low light still means some natural or grow light |
| Water | Water when the top 1–2 inches of mix are dry, then let excess drain away |
| Humidity | Moderate to high; airflow matters |
| Temperature | 60–85°F; avoid sudden temperature changes and drafts |
| Soil | Chunky, airy aroid mix with bark and perlite |
| Pets | Toxic to cats and dogs; keep out of reach and confirm the botanical name |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Light
Low to bright indirect light; low light still means some natural or grow light. Stretched stems and pale leaves usually mean more suitable light is needed, while bleached or crispy patches can mean the light is too intense. Increase exposure gradually after a move.
Watering
Water when the top 1–2 inches of mix are dry, then let excess drain away. Empty any saucer or cachepot after watering. A pot with a drainage hole is essential, and the correct interval changes with pot size, temperature, light, and season.
Soil and potting
Use chunky, airy aroid mix with bark and perlite. Repot only when the mix has broken down or roots have filled the pot. Move up one pot size so extra mix does not stay wet around the roots.
Humidity, temperature, and feeding
Moderate to high; airflow matters. Keep the plant away from heating vents, fireplaces, and cold glass. During active growth, feed lightly at the label rate or half strength. Skip feeding when dormant, newly repotted, or stressed.
Pruning and common problems
Low light is tolerated, but brighter indirect light keeps vines fuller and variegation stronger.
- Yellow leaves with wet soil: check drainage and roots before watering or fertilizing again.
- Brown, crispy edges: check dry-down, direct sun, salts, humidity, and drafts.
- Leggy growth: increase suitable light gradually and rotate the pot for even growth.
Shop this plant: Pothos
Sources: Oregon State University Extension: right plant, right place and RHS leaf-damage troubleshooting. Care can vary by species, cultivar, potting mix, season, and growing conditions.