How to Grow Pothos

Pothos likes medium, filtered light, high humidity and warm temperatures, between 70 to 90 degrees, but will tolerate other conditions, even low light. Keep it out of direct sun. 

As with other plants, position pothos so that it is not exposed to air and temperature fluctuations or drafts. Drafts change humidity levels and can dry out foliage.

Like other indoor plants, pothos can be taken outside for rejuvenation after the danger of frost has passed in the spring. Move it to a protected area to give it time to acclimate to the outdoors and bring it back inside before the first frost. Use caution when growing pothos outdoors in zone 10 or warmer. According to Florida Extension, the plant is considered invasive in south Florida and is on the caution list for central Florida, meaning there is moderate risk of ecological and economic damage if it escapes into the wild in frost-free climates. 

Plant pothos in a container with drainage holes. Use a quality potting medium, such as a soilless mix, that drains well. Allow it to dry out between waterings. It does better in dry soil than in wet soil. Soggy soil can lead to root rot.

Pothos, or any houseplant, may benefit from repotting on occasion. If roots are growing out the drainage hole, that’s a clue it’s time to repot your plant. Select a container 1 to 2 inches larger than the current container. Make sure it has drainage holes and use a soilless mix. Avoid going larger than a couple of inches because the extra potting mix needed in a larger container can hold more water than your plant can take up, leaving the roots wet for too long. 

Fertilizing

• Like any houseplant, pothos benefits on occasion from added nutrients. Apply a water-soluble fertilizer for houseplants every other month and follow label directions. If you have just purchased pothos, the potting medium likely contains fertilizer, and the plant may not need an application for 2 or 3 months. Cease fertilization during the winter when the plant growth has slowed. 

Controlling Pests, Diseases, and Other Problems

• This plant typically isn’t affected with serious pest problems. Sometimes mealybugs, spider mites, or scales can be a problem. Mealybugs cover themselves with a white, cotton-like substance. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and swipe it over the leaves. If mites are a problem, give the plant a good cleaning by holding the foliage under running water. Scales are dark-colored bumps on the stems or leaves. If there are only a few, scrape off with a fingernail or swipe the area with a cotton swab and alcohol. If infestations are heavy and unsightly, prune away the infected area or discard the entire plant.

• Older leaves turn yellow and drop off. This plant benefits from an occasional pruning of its stems to help it maintain a fuller appearance. Use sharp scissors and cut anywhere along the stem, just above a node. 
• It also benefits when any dust is removed from its leaves. On occasion, simply use a soft, damp cloth and gently wipe the leaves to remove any dust.
• Variegated plants that are exposed to low lights may lose their variegation and turn a solid green.
• The plant is poisonous to humans so keep out of reach of children. Cats and dogs can be sensitive to it.