Troubleshooting
Common Pothos problems — and how to fix them
Common Pothos (Pothos scandens) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Yellowing leaves
Most often from overwatering. Allow soil to dry more between waterings; check drainage holes are unblocked.
Leggy, sparse growth
Indicates low light or lack of vertical support. Move to a brighter spot and provide a moss pole or trellis to encourage larger, more closely spaced leaves.
Brown leaf tips
Usually low humidity or irregular watering. Keep humidity above 45% and maintain a consistent watering routine.
Root rot
From consistently wet soil. Repot into fresh, well-draining mix, trim rotted roots, and adjust watering frequency.
Mealybugs and scale
Common in warm, indoor conditions. Remove with an alcohol-dipped swab and follow up with insecticidal soap spray every 7-10 days until clear.
Prevent common pothos problems before they start
Most common pothos issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Common Pothos problems — FAQ
Why is my common pothos yellowing leaves?
Most often from overwatering. Allow soil to dry more between waterings; check drainage holes are unblocked.
Why is my common pothos leggy, sparse growth?
Indicates low light or lack of vertical support. Move to a brighter spot and provide a moss pole or trellis to encourage larger, more closely spaced leaves.
Why is my common pothos brown leaf tips?
Usually low humidity or irregular watering. Keep humidity above 45% and maintain a consistent watering routine.
Why is my common pothos root rot?
From consistently wet soil. Repot into fresh, well-draining mix, trim rotted roots, and adjust watering frequency.
Why is my common pothos mealybugs and scale?
Common in warm, indoor conditions. Remove with an alcohol-dipped swab and follow up with insecticidal soap spray every 7-10 days until clear.