From our perspective, the most important concept to understand is that we do not consume water on a human calendar. The question of "how often" is less about days of the week and more about our state of being. Our primary need is for a cycle of thorough hydration followed by a period where our roots can access oxygen. We desire a "feast or famine" cycle. The goal is to water us deeply when we are thirsty, then allow the soil to dry adequately before the next feast. A rigid schedule, like "every Tuesday," often leads to our roots sitting in constant moisture, which is a death sentence for us, as it suffocates us and invites root rot.
To know when we are thirsty, you must check our soil. The most reliable method is the finger test. Insert your finger about two inches into the potting mix. If the soil at that depth feels completely dry, it is time for a drink. If it still feels cool or moist, we are still content and do not need water. For those who prefer a tool, a simple moisture meter can provide a more precise reading. Alternatively, you can assess the weight of our pot; a very light pot indicates dry soil, while a heavier one means there is still plenty of moisture within.
Our water consumption rate is not constant; it is directly influenced by our environment. In the US, these conditions vary greatly, so you must observe and adjust. During our active growing season (spring and summer), with longer days and more intense light, we are photosynthesizing vigorously and will use water much more quickly. In the shorter, dimmer days of fall and winter, our growth slows nearly to a halt, and our water needs diminish significantly. Furthermore, we dry out faster in warm, dry homes with low humidity and with increased air circulation from heaters or air conditioners. A plant in a hot, sunny Arizona window will need far more frequent watering than one in a cool, humid Michigan bathroom.
When our soil is dry and we signal our thirst, please water us properly. The best method is to take us to a sink and pour room-temperature water evenly over the soil until it begins to flow freely from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures our entire root ball is evenly moistened. It is crucial that you allow all excess water to drain away completely. Never let us sit in a saucer of standing water, as this drowns our roots. This thorough soaking, followed by complete drainage, mimics the natural downpours we would experience in our native habitat.
We will tell you when we are in distress. If you have waited too long to water, we will become visibly limp. Our stems will droop, and our leaves will become soft and wilted. This is our dramatic plea for water. Fortunately, we Pothos are resilient and will typically perk up within hours of a good drink. The more dangerous signal is yellowing leaves, especially if they are accompanied by a soft, blackened base or a musty smell from the soil. This is a sign of overwatering and root rot, a far more serious condition that is often fatal if not addressed immediately.
