Choosing the right pot for your pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is critical for its health and growth. Pothos is a hardy plant, but improper pot selection can lead to root rot, stunted growth, or even plant death. The two most important factors to consider are drainage and size, as these directly impact root health and moisture management.
Pothos thrives in well-draining soil and pots that prevent waterlogging. Here’s what to look for:
Drainage Holes: Always select a pot with at least one drainage hole at the bottom. Multiple holes are even better, as they allow excess water to escape more efficiently. Without proper drainage, water accumulates, leading to root rot and fungal infections.
Material Considerations: Porous materials like terracotta or unglazed ceramic help wick away moisture, reducing the risk of overwatering. Plastic pots retain moisture longer, so they require careful watering. Avoid decorative pots without drainage unless used as a cache pot (with a nursery pot inside).
Pothos prefers slightly snug conditions but needs room to grow. The right pot size depends on the plant’s current root system and growth stage.
Small Pothos (Cuttings or Young Plants): Start with a 4-6 inch pot. Too large a pot holds excess soil, which stays wet longer and can suffocate roots.
Established Pothos: Upgrade to a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one when roots circle the bottom or emerge from drainage holes. A 8-10 inch pot is usually sufficient for mature pothos.
Hanging Baskets: For trailing pothos, ensure the basket has drainage and is proportionate to the plant’s size. A 6-8 inch hanging pot works well for most varieties.
Pothos has a shallow root system, so a wide, shallow pot is often better than a deep one. Here’s why:
Shallow Roots: Pothos roots spread horizontally rather than vertically. A pot that’s too deep retains unused soil, increasing the risk of waterlogging.
Stability: A wider base prevents top-heavy trailing vines from tipping over. For bushy growth, choose a wider pot to accommodate multiple stems.
Watch for these indicators that your pothos requires repotting:
Root Bound: Roots growing out of drainage holes or circling the pot’s interior.
Slow Growth: Stunted leaves or reduced vine elongation may signal cramped roots.
Water Drainage Issues: If water pools on the soil surface or drains too slowly, the pot may lack proper drainage or be too large.
To keep your pothos healthy, steer clear of these errors:
Oversizing: Jumping to a pot that’s too large can cause root rot due to excess soil moisture.
Ignoring Drainage: Using pots without holes or failing to empty saucers after watering.
Wrong Material: Heavy, non-porous pots (like metal or glass) can trap moisture and lack airflow.
