Some indoor plants are easier to water than others, and pothos falls into the “easier” category. Pothos is a strong, resilient plant that can tolerate a variety of environments. In fact, due to its tenacity, pothos is often called devil’s ivy.
However, even a tough plant like pothos can deteriorate if it doesn’t get the appropriate amount of water. Learn about the signs of overwatering pothos plants and how to fix them to get your beautiful plant healthy again.
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Soggy Soil
Excessively moist soil is the most typical indicator that you have overwatered your pothos plant. The soil will feel saturated use the finger method. The ‘finger method’ is when you insert your finger in the top inches of the soil; if your fingers come out moist, delay watering for a few days. If the soil is dry, it’s time to water.
Lifting the pot is also an indicator you over watering your plant. Saturated soil will be much heavier then plants that need a drink. You might even see water leaking from the bottom of its home.
Soft Leaves
Wilting will occur if you’ve over- or underwatered your pothos. However, drooping leaves appear soft if the plant is overwatered. Pothos generally have delicate leaves, but they should be perky; an overwatered plant will appear limp.
Yellow or Brown Leaves
The most common symptom of overwatering is yellow leaves on your plant. The edges of the leaves will begin to turn yellow and eventually engulf the entire leaf. Similarly, you might notice brown spots on your precious plant friends.
Wilting Continues After Watering
If you notice that your plant is limp and droopy even after watering it, there’s a high chance that you have overwatered your pothos. This problem requires attention and you must resolve the issue.
Generally, pothos plants need to be watered every one to two weeks. If you’re unsure if your plant needs a drink, use the finger method.
Mushy Stems
If you notice that the lower part of your pothos vines and stems are turning squishy, it could be due to root rot from overwatering the plant. In this case it’s best to remove the plant from the pot and assess the problem — hopefully repotting or propagating can save your pothos.
Bad Odor
Pothos has a limited capacity for water absorption; therefore, the water will become stagnant if given an excessive amount. If your pothos is in a pebble tray, remember to dump the excess water. If left, the plant will eventually begin to give off a foul odor due to overwatering and possible root rot.
Fungus Gnats
If you love gardening and have a green thumb, then you know fungus gnats love to make an overwatered plant their home. If you notice these annoying pests on your beloved plant you must investigate the problem.
You can avoid insect infestation by following the proper watering process and treating your plant with natural insecticides or using sticky pads.
Root Rot
The worst-case scenario for your plants is root rot since it can be a death sentence for your lovely plant. You can check if your plant has root rot by examining it and taking it out of it’s potted home. Remove as much soil from the roots as possible and if you notice brown, wet, mushy, and stinky roots, cut them off.
Losing Leaves
An overwatered pothos will start to lose its new and old leaves. Green, yellow, and brown — all the leaves will eventually begin to fall off.
If you notice an abundance of fallen leaves around your plant, you may be overwatering it. Don’t let your fallen leaves sit on the plant’s soil since that might result in fungal problems. Instead, remove and discard them.
How Do You Save an Overwatered Pothos?
If you’ve overwatered your pothos plant, don’t worry. You can still save it by repotting.
After checkingits roots remove those that are brown, slimy, squishy, or mealy with a clean, disinfected pair of pruning scissors. You must ensure that you cut well above the rotten roots ensuring the problem won’t return. Carefully wipe your scissors between every cut.
You can then spray your plant with 1 part hydrogen peroxide and 4 parts water. Doing so will help eliminate any bacteria and lingering fungi. You should also clean the pot.
Plant the remaining pothos roots in fresh, amended potting mix after lightly moistening it. Keep your plant from direct sunlight or fertilizer for the first few weeks. Spray it with a bit of water to keep it humid.
Vine Your Way To Success
If you notice that your pothos is overwatered — don’t throw away the plant. There are ways to salvage your beautiful devil’s ivy. It just requires nurture and care and with the help of the above guide — it’s possible to revive your pothos plant.
Do you have any tips to share? Do mention them in the comments below
