Before attempting to revive your dying pothos plant, carefully examine its current state. Look for yellowing or browning leaves, wilting stems, or root rot. Check the soil moisture—overwatering or underwatering are common culprits. If the roots are mushy and dark, root rot may be present. Healthy roots should be firm and white. Identifying the problem is the first step to saving your plant.
Pothos plants prefer evenly moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. If the soil is soggy, stop watering immediately and let it dry out. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil if necessary. If the soil is bone dry, give the plant a thorough soak until water drains from the bottom. Going forward, water only when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
Pothos thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light. If your plant is struggling due to insufficient light, move it closer to a window with filtered sunlight. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. Conversely, if the leaves are pale or leggy, the plant may need more light. Adjust its position gradually to prevent shock.
Remove yellow or brown leaves and prune back any dead or weak stems using clean scissors. This redirects the plant’s energy to healthy growth. Cut just above a leaf node to encourage new shoots. If the plant is severely damaged, consider propagating healthy cuttings in water or soil to grow a new plant.
Inspect the leaves and stems for pests like spider mites, mealybugs, or aphids. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap to treat infestations. For fungal issues like powdery mildew, improve air circulation and avoid wetting the leaves when watering. Remove affected foliage to prevent spread.
If the pothos is rootbound (roots circling the pot) or the soil is depleted, repot it into a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Gently loosen the roots before planting. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Repotting can rejuvenate a struggling plant by providing fresh nutrients and space for root growth.
If the plant is weak, avoid heavy fertilization, which can stress it further. Once new growth appears, feed with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
Pothos enjoys moderate humidity. If the air is too dry, mist the leaves occasionally or place the pot on a tray with pebbles and water. Avoid placing the plant near heating vents or drafts, which can dry out the foliage.
Reviving a dying pothos takes time. Continue providing consistent care, and monitor for new growth. If the plant doesn’t recover, consider propagating healthy cuttings to start anew. Pothos is resilient, and with proper attention, it often bounces back.
