Problems

Pothos Problems: Causes & Quick Fixes

Quick answer

Pothos is prone to 39 common issues - each link below is a plant-specific fix guide.

Pothos houseplant

Pothos problems

Use the guides below to diagnose and fix common issues on Pothos. Each problem page explains why it happens on this species and what to do first.

Or use our problem diagnosis tool to narrow down symptoms.

Common problems on Pothos

Likely cause: Jul 5, 2023 · If you have noticed ants on your pothos plant , don’t worry – there are several effective methods to eliminate them and keep your plant healthy. In this article, we will discuss some of the most effective ways to get rid of an

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Dry air, fluoride in tap water, or inconsistent watering causes tip browning

Quick fix: Increase humidity, switch to filtered water, and water more consistently

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Likely cause: Jan 6, 2024 · Here are some common pothos diseases you may need to watch out for: Bacterial wilt disease is one of the most common diseases in pothos plants. The bacteria Ralstonia solanacearum causes the leaves to turn brown and wilt . Whe

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Dec 1, 2025 · Keep your Pothos healthy. Learn the critical cold thresholds, diagnose damage symptoms, and use proven steps for recovery and future protection.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: May 10, 2022 · See why your pothos leaves are curling and turning yellow or upwards, as well as how to fix curling leaves and whether pothos leaves uncurl.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Aug 7, 2025 · Understanding the causes of deformed leaves is the first step toward restoring your pothos to robust health and encouraging unblemished new growth. This article identifies common issues and provides actionable solutions to kee

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Jun 30, 2023 · However, there are several effective methods you can use to get rid of caterpillars on your pothos plant and prevent further damage. In this article, we will explore these methods and provide you with step-by-step instruction

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Epipremnum aureum is an evergreen vine growing to 20 m (66 ft) tall, with stems up to 4 cm (2 in) in diameter, climbing using aerial roots which adhere to surfaces.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Aug 4, 2025 · Solve your Pothos gnat problem. Learn effective methods to identify, remove, and prevent these persistent houseplant pests for thriving plants.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Pothos ( Epipremnum aureum ) is a commonly used indoor ornamental foliage, particularly in the middle and lower regions of the Yangtze River in China. It typically grows in the tropical area, and it is yet unclear whether prolonged winter t

Quick fix: Follow extension or botanical guidance for Pothos heat stress; adjust care before applying broad treatments.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Insufficient light causes long bare stems with widely spaced leaves

Quick fix: Move closer to a window; trim leggy vines to encourage branching

Full fix guide →

Leaf Drop

Medium

Likely cause: 01 Environmental change Most tropical plants drop leaves when they're moved to a new location, repotted, or exposed to a cold draft. It's a stress response, not death. Quick check Did you recently move the plant, repot it, or change its lig

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Effectively manage mold in pothos soil with these steps: Carefully remove visible mold , position your plant in a well-ventilated area, and adjust watering routines to let soil dry between waterings.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Mealybugs

Medium

Likely cause: Nov 15, 2024 · This complete mealybugs on pothos guide covers several methods, from simple manual removal to more robust organic treatments. You can choose the one that best fits the severity of your infestation.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Apr 10, 2026 · No. Penn State Extension notes that pothos “rarely flowers even in its native habitat, so no hybrids exist” - there is no commercial breeding program producing flowering pothos cultivars, because there are not enough flowers

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Jul 4, 2022 · What is a Leggy Pothos? A leggy Pothos has long vines with a small number of leaves. Instead of making new leaves or roots, the plant puts most of its growth into making long stems. This process of extending the length is call

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Potyvirus infection in pothos (most commonly Dasheen Mosaic Virus , DMV) produces characteristic mosaic patterning with alternating light and dark green patches, leaf distortion, and stunted growth.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Dec 27, 2025 · Let’s cut right to the chase: Yes, pothos absolutely need drainage to thrive long-term. While they can survive for a short while in less-than-ideal conditions (that’s their trademark toughness!), they cannot flourish without

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Feb 11, 2026 · Discover how to grow thriving pothos plants with this beginner-friendly guide covering light, temperature, varieties, pots, soil, watering, and feeding.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Dec 27, 2025 · Let’s cut right to the chase: Yes, pothos absolutely need drainage to thrive long-term. While they can survive for a short while in less-than-ideal conditions (that’s their trademark toughness!), they cannot flourish without

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Jun 5, 2026 · Pothos prefer a slightly snug pot that's only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than their root ball. Getting the pothos pot size right matters more than most people realize. A pot that's too big holds excess moisture around the r

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Is “ purple pothos ” real? Learn the truth about this common plant myth and find stunning purple - leaf alternatives for your collection.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Mar 26, 2025 · Potassium is essential for overall plant health and plays a role in water regulation, enzyme activation, and disease resistance. Signs of potassium deficiency in Pothos plants include:

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Oct 13, 2025 · Learn when to repot pothos , what pot size and soil to use, and how to avoid shock, yellow leaves, and root rot after moving your plant.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Jun 5, 2026 · Pothos prefer a slightly snug pot that's only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than their root ball. Getting the pothos pot size right matters more than most people realize. A pot that's too big holds excess moisture around the r

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Dec 26, 2025 · In this complete scales on pothos guide, we’ll dive deep into what these pests are, how to spot them early, and a proven battle plan to eliminate them using effective and eco-friendly methods.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Most potting soils come with ample nutrients which plants use to produce new growth. By the time your plant has depleted the nutrients in its soil it’s likely grown enough to need a larger pot anyway. To replenish this plant's nutrients, re

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Chronically wet soil in poorly draining mix leads to rapid root rot

Quick fix: Remove from pot, trim all dark mushy roots, repot in fresh well-draining mix; do not water for one week

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Likely cause: Jul 17, 2023 · In conclusion, a pothos hanging plant falling over can be attributed to various factors such as lack of support, watering issues, inadequate light, nutrient deficiencies, overcrowded roots, or pests and diseases.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: The flowers are produced in a spathe up to 23 cm (9 in) long. This plant produces trailing stems when it climbs up trees and these take root when they reach the ground and grow along with it.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Feb 14, 2026 · Learn how to fix slow growth on pothos with simple adjustments to light, watering, fertilizing, and repotting to encourage faster, healthier vine development.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Jul 20, 2023 · The Jade Pothos plant, also known as Epipremnum aureum , is a popular choice for indoor gardening due to its low maintenance and air-purifying properties. However, like any other houseplant, it is susceptible to pests, includ

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: The yellowing and burning of epipremnum aureum leaves are common problems in the maintenance process. Understanding their causes and solutions is crucial for planters.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Jul 17, 2025 · Pothos plants prefer well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH range of 6.1 to 7.0 . This type of soil allows for healthy root growth and prevents waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot and other problem

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Wilting

Medium

Likely cause: Dec 29, 2025 · Golden Pothos ( Epipremnum aureum ) is a hardy and adaptable houseplant that thrives in a variety of conditions. However, even this resilient plant can show signs of stress, such as wilting , if its needs are not met.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Mar 1, 2026 · Healthy Pothos vines should be firm and strong, supporting steady leaf growth. When stems become thin or weak, the plant often lacks light, nutrients, or stable care conditions . This guide explains why Pothos stems become wea

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: May 1, 2021 · White Flies Whiteflies are winged, soft-bodied fly-like insects that don’t fly. Like mealybugs, aphids, and other bugs, they suck vital fluids out of your pothos. They’re small (around 1/12-inch long) and roughly triangular, o

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Oct 9, 2020 · Need guidance on Pothos soil mixes ? During my 12 years of gardening, I have found 9 soil recipes that work for my Pothos . Read on to discover ideal soil types, signs of wrong soil , and DIY or store-bought options for your P

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Likely cause: Overwatering is the most common cause; also occurs with low light over time

Quick fix: Allow soil to dry fully; move to a brighter spot; check roots are not sitting in water

Full fix guide →

Frequently asked questions

How often should I water Pothos?

Water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry - roughly every 7–10 days in summer.

What light does Pothos need?

Pothos grows best in bright to medium indirect light, low light, fluorescent office light.

Is Pothos toxic to pets?

Pothos is toxic to cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, horses, turtles, and tortoises. Keep out of reach of curious pets and choose pet-safe alternatives for accessible spots.

How do I propagate Pothos?

Propagate Pothos from healthy stem or root divisions during active growth.

What soil is best for Pothos?

Use light, well-draining potting mix with added perlite.

When should I repot Pothos?

Repot Pothos when roots circle the pot or growth slows despite good care.

Why does my Pothos have ants on plant?

Jul 5, 2023 · If you have noticed ants on your pothos plant , don’t worry – there are several effective methods to eliminate them and keep your plant healthy. In this article, we will discuss some of the most effective ways to get rid of an Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Pothos, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

How this Pothos problems guide is reviewed?

Editorial policyReview board

Written by · Reviewed by LeafyPixels Review Board · Updated June 29, 2026

This Pothos problems problem guide was researched and written by . Problems symptoms on Pothos, lookalike causes, and step-by-step fixes are cross-checked against extension pest, disease, and care references before publication.

We prioritize sources that hold up under scrutiny:

  • University cooperative extension bulletins and fact sheets (Penn State, Clemson, UMD, NC State, and similar programs)
  • Botanical garden and horticultural society publications
  • Peer-reviewed plant science and veterinary toxicology references where pet safety matters (including ASPCA Animal Poison Control)
  • Established reference works on indoor plant culture

The LeafyPixels editorial team then reviews the draft for clarity, step-by-step usefulness, and fit with real apartment and home conditions-not ideal greenhouse setups. When guidance changes materially, we update the page and note the revision date.


Sources used

  1. **interveinal** yellowing on older leaves (2011) Diagnosing Nutrient Deficiencies. [Online]. Available at: https://ipm.missouri.edu/MEG/2011/6/Diagnosing-Nutrient-Deficiencies/ (Accessed: 29 June 2026).
  2. **young** leaves with green veins (n.d.) Nutrient Deficiency Indoor Plants. [Online]. Available at: https://extension.umd.edu/resource/nutrient-deficiency-indoor-plants (Accessed: 29 June 2026).
  3. 29–32°C (85–90°F) (n.d.) EP151. [Online]. Available at: https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP151 (Accessed: 29 June 2026).
  4. accumulates in leaf margins through the transpiration stream (n.d.) Fluorine Toxicity Plants. [Online]. Available at: https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/pathogen-articles/nonpathogenic-phenomena/fluorine-toxicity-plants (Accessed: 29 June 2026).
  5. anthocyanin pigments (n.d.) Purple Leaves. [Online]. Available at: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/purple-leaves (Accessed: 29 June 2026).
  6. ants protect honeydew producers from predators (n.d.) Search. [Online]. Available at: https://ipm.ucanr.edu/search/?q=aphids (Accessed: 29 June 2026).
  7. Bleached, tan, or papery patches (n.d.) Indoor Plant Problems Nonliving. [Online]. Available at: https://extension.umd.edu/resources/yard-garden/indoor-plants/indoor-plant-problems-nonliving (Accessed: 29 June 2026).
  8. bright indirect light (n.d.) Growing Guide. [Online]. Available at: https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/epipremnum/growing-guide (Accessed: 29 June 2026).
  9. bright, indirect light (n.d.) Pothos As A Houseplant. [Online]. Available at: https://extension.psu.edu/pothos-as-a-houseplant (Accessed: 29 June 2026).
  10. Chilling injuries can appear as leaves that turn red, purple, or black (n.d.) Calling Plant 911 Understanding Cold Injuries And Caring For Plants After Extreme Weather Hits. [Online]. Available at: https://durham.ces.ncsu.edu/news/calling-plant-911-understanding-cold-injuries-and-caring-for-plants-after-extreme-weather-hits/ (Accessed: 29 June 2026).