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Pothos

Pothos care: watering, light and yellow leaves

Golden pothos

DifficultyVery easy
SeasonYear-round
FoliageA perennial

Meaning

Tough and kind, watching over happiness

Golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) prefers indirect light and well-drained potting mix. Let the mix approach dryness before watering; avoid leaving the roots in water.

The sap contains calcium oxalate. If a cat or dog chews it, the mouth burns and they may vomit.

Light

Bright, indirect light; tolerates some shade

Water

Check the mix; water when approaching dryness

Temperature

18–30°C; avoid cold drafts

Feed

Houseplant fertilizer during active growth, following its label

Do this when you get home

  1. Choose a spot with bright, indirect light rather than direct summer sun.
  2. Use a pot with drainage and check the mix with your finger before adding water.
  3. Let the vines trail from a shelf or provide climbing support, away from children and pets.

Day to day

  • Wait for the mix to dry between waterings; empty water left in the saucer.
  • Wipe dust from the leaves and prune long stems if you want a bushier plant.
  • A stem cutting with a leaf joint can root in water. Wear gloves when taking cuttings.

Common questions

How often should I water pothos indoors?

Use the condition of the potting mix rather than a fixed weekly schedule. Water as it approaches dryness and allow excess water to drain.

Why are my pothos leaves turning yellow?

An older leaf can yellow naturally. If several change together, check whether the mix stays wet and whether the pot drains. Overwatering can damage roots; leaf color alone does not identify the cause.

Can pothos grow in low light?

It tolerates some shade, but bright, indirect light is preferable. In a dim location growth can weaken and variegated leaves may lose their pattern.

Care references

These sources support the care guidance above. Flower meanings and gifting symbolism are cultural references. How we maintain this guide

Plant doctor

More foliage

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PetalPal

Reminders and a care diary live in the app

Get a nudge when it’s time to water or change the vase water, and keep a diary for each plant, in the PetalPal app. Search “PetalPal” on the App Store or Google Play.