How to Water Pothos Correctly

Why Pothos Is a Great Plant for Learning Watering

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is one of the best plants for beginners because it communicates its needs clearly. When it needs water, the leaves droop slightly and lose their firmness. When it's happy, the leaves are firm, glossy, and upright. This makes pothos an excellent plant for learning to read plant signals.

How to Know When to Water Pothos

The most reliable method is to check the soil with a soil moisture meter. Water pothos when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry — the meter should read in the lower "moist" to "dry" range. No battery needed, works instantly.

Alternatively, push your finger 1–2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, it's time to water. If it still feels moist, wait another day or two.

How to Water Pothos: Step-by-Step

1. Check the soil: Confirm the top 1–2 inches are dry
2. Water thoroughly: Use a watering can with a long spout to water evenly across the soil surface until water drains from the bottom
3. Drain completely: Empty the saucer after 30 minutes. Pothos don't like sitting in standing water
4. Wait until the top 1–2 inches dry out again before watering

How Often to Water Pothos

• Summer (bright indirect light): Every 7–10 days
• Winter (lower light, slower growth): Every 10–14 days
• Low light conditions: Less frequently — soil dries more slowly
• Always check the soil rather than following a fixed schedule

Signs of Overwatered Pothos

• Yellow leaves (especially lower leaves)
• Mushy stems at the base
• Soil stays wet for more than a week
• Fungus gnats around the soil
• Black spots on leaves

Signs of Underwatered Pothos

• Drooping, wilting leaves (but soil is dry)
• Leaves feel limp and soft
• Dry, crispy leaf edges
• Soil pulling away from pot edges

Can Pothos Grow in Water?

Yes — pothos can grow in water indefinitely. Place cuttings in a jar of water, change the water every 1–2 weeks, and the plant will grow roots and continue to thrive. This is a great low-maintenance alternative to soil growing.

Final Thoughts

Watering pothos correctly is straightforward: check the soil with a moisture meter, water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches are dry, drain completely, and repeat. Pothos is forgiving and will bounce back quickly from minor watering mistakes — making it the perfect plant for building your watering confidence.