How to Water Pothos Plants

Houseplants
Pothos Watering

Pothos plants are very sensitive to water so it is crucial to know how to water them properly. This will have a great effect on their health and can make your plant either thrive or get sick. Keep in mind that improper watering can damage a plant or even kill it. Typically, this happens with over-watering but not watering enough is also a bad idea.

When to Water Your Pothos Plant?

Many new gardeners wonder about the best time period between two watering of the Pothos plants. While there may be some tips on when to water your Pothos plant or how long to wait between waterings keep in mind that both of these approaches are unreliable.

The only way to determine that your Pothos plant truly needs water is to check the soil and see if it's moist. Do this at regular intervals so you know when it's time for watering. Do get into a habit of checking your Pothos plant at least once per week. Pick one day in a week for your plant inspection.

During these inspections, make sure to check the moisture level of the soil. Keep in mind that each plant is individual so it might need watering at different intervals. Remember: you should only water when the soil is not moist anymore. Watering more often will lead to over-watering, which is not healthy for your plant.

Checking the Soil

It is best to use your fingers to see if the soil is dry enough to water your plant. In most of the cases, it is best to wait until the soil is dried down half the height of the pot or even a bit more. Only then it is safe to water your plant.

You will know that the soil is moist because it will cling to your skin. Moist soil is also typically darker than dry soil. If the pot is too big, take a bit of the soil and squeeze it in your hand. If the soil is moist it will hold together.

For pots that are 10 inches in diameter or larger it is best to use a soil probe to see if the soil is moist enough. Also, keep in mind that with these large pots you need to let the soil dry more than with a smaller pot. This is one more reason to use a soil probe.

The Dangers of Over-Watering

Over-watering your Pothos plant can lead to the root rot, which can kill your plant. The roots of your Pothos plant need air. When you water too often the roots become constantly wet, which makes the roots lack oxygen.

This is very dangerous and can eventually kill your Pothos plant. In order to avoid that you need to be very careful when to water. It is very important to avoid over-watering at all costs.

Keep in mind that over-watering mainly refers to the frequency of watering and not the amount of water you use. While it is not the best to use so much water this will not kill your plant as long as you choose to water it only when your plant truly need it.

How to Know if You Are Doing it Right?

The best way to know if you are watering in a good way is to take a look at your Pothos plant. If it has shiny, green leaves chances are that it is happy. Does your plant look strong? If the answer is yes chances are that you are doing it right.

If, on the other hand, your plant looks droopy and less healthy than the week before, it may be a sign to change something. Inspect your plant further to discover if there is an underlying problem. Reconsider your watering habits: are you watering even if the soil is still moist? If yes, stop it - you should only water your Pothos plant once the soil is not moist anymore.

Photo credit: Julie Jordan Scott

Share Tweet Share Pin

1 Comments

  • REPLY Avatar

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *