How to Water Pothos: Your Ultimate Guide to Healthy Plants

Pothos, also known as Epipremnum aureum or “devil’s ivy,” is a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts for its resilience, fast growth, and beautiful trailing vines. With its heart-shaped leaves and adaptability, it’s perfect for beginners and experienced plant lovers alike. But even a tough plant like pothos can struggle if its watering needs are misunderstood. Watering is arguably the most critical part of pothos care. Done right, it encourages lush foliage and healthy growth. Done wrong, it’s one of the quickest ways to cause yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted vines.

How Often Should You Water Pothos?

There’s no universal schedule that works for every plant because watering needs change depending on the environment. On average, most pothos plants thrive when watered every one to two weeks. The key is to let the top inch or two of soil dry out completely before watering again. You can easily check this by inserting your finger into the soil—if it feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water.

During the growing season, which includes spring and summer, pothos tends to grow faster and use more water. In these months, you may find yourself watering every 7 to 10 days. As the weather cools in fall and winter, the plant’s growth slows down, and water requirements drop. During these dormant periods, watering every 10 to 14 days is usually sufficient.

How Environment Affects Watering Frequency

Several environmental factors influence how often you should water your pothos. Light is one of the most important. Pothos placed in bright, indirect light will dry out faster than those kept in low-light areas. Similarly, indoor humidity plays a role—dry air causes quicker evaporation, especially in homes with central heating or air conditioning.

Pot size and type also matter. Small pots dry out more quickly than larger ones, and porous containers like terracotta allow moisture to escape faster than plastic or glazed ceramic pots. If your plant is in a smaller container or receiving plenty of light, you’ll need to check the soil more frequently.

How to Water Pothos the Right Way

When you’re ready to water your pothos, doing it correctly is more important than how often you do it. Start by checking the soil. Stick your finger about 1–2 inches deep into the potting mix—if it’s dry, go ahead and water.

Use room-temperature water, as cold water can shock the plant’s roots. It’s best to let tap water sit out for a few hours or overnight before using it so chlorine can dissipate. Slowly pour water over the soil, covering the surface evenly until water begins draining from the bottom of the pot. This ensures all the roots are thoroughly soaked.

After watering, don’t forget to empty the saucer underneath the pot. Standing water can lead to root rot, a common issue that can seriously harm or kill your pothos.

Improving Humidity for Happier Plants

While pothos isn’t too fussy about humidity, it does come from tropical environments and appreciates a little extra moisture in the air. If your home is particularly dry, especially in winter, consider misting the leaves every few days or placing a small tray filled with water and pebbles under or near the pot. As the water evaporates, it will gently raise the humidity around the plant.

You can also group your pothos with other plants to create a mini humidity zone. If you’re really committed, using a humidifier in the room where your pothos lives can help mimic the plant’s natural environment even better.

Choosing the Best Water for Pothos

Believe it or not, the type of water you use can make a difference. The best choices for watering pothos include filtered water, distilled water, or rainwater. These options help avoid the buildup of minerals and chemicals that can stress the plant over time.

If you use tap water, it’s usually fine—but try to let it sit for 24 hours before using it. This allows chlorine and other chemicals to evaporate. One type of water you should avoid, though, is softened water. It contains added salts that can accumulate in the soil and damage your plant’s roots over time.

Spotting the Signs: When Your Pothos Needs Water

Knowing when to water isn’t just about sticking to a schedule—it’s also about paying attention to your plant’s signals. A thirsty pothos will show signs of stress. You might notice drooping leaves, crispy edges, or soil that has pulled away from the sides of the pot. If the plant is left dry too long, new growth may slow or stop altogether.

On the other hand, overwatering comes with its own problems. Yellowing leaves, particularly at the base of the plant, are one of the most common warning signs. If the soil feels soggy or smells musty, it’s time to act fast. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which causes the roots to become soft, brown, or black. If this happens, you’ll need to remove the plant from its pot, trim away any rotten roots, and replant it in fresh, well-draining soil.

Preventing Common Watering Mistakes

Overwatering is more common than underwatering when it comes to pothos. Always make sure your pot has good drainage. If your container doesn’t have drainage holes, your plant is at risk—even if you water sparingly. It’s better to use a nursery pot with holes and place it inside a decorative cache pot than to risk poor drainage in a sealed container.

Another easy mistake to avoid is watering on a strict schedule without checking soil moisture. Plants respond to their environment, not your calendar. Make checking the soil a habit instead of watering by the clock. Also, keep in mind that different seasons and home setups will require changes to your routine. A pothos in a sunny, warm window will need more water than one in a shaded corner.