Yellow Leaves in Pothos
Pothos is one of the easiest houseplants to grow, thriving in almost any indoor condition
Pothos care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to yellow leaves in Pothos. Check each one as a potential cause.
Symptoms to look for in Pothos
Yellowing usually appears on lower, older vine leaves first, often paired with soft or mushy stems near the soil line if overwatering is the cause.
Common causes in Pothos
Pothos is one of the most overwatering-prone houseplants for yellow leaves specifically because it's marketed as low-maintenance — but its care guide calls for letting soil dry out completely between waterings, and many owners water on a fixed schedule instead of checking the soil. Low light and nutrient deficiency are less common but possible causes.
How to diagnose yellow leaves in Pothos
Check soil moisture first. Wet soil + yellow lower leaves = overwatering. Dry soil = underwatering. Yellowing between veins = nutrient deficiency.
How to treat yellow leaves in Pothos
Let the soil dry out completely before watering again — Pothos tolerates missed waterings far better than soggy soil. If yellowing continues after adjusting watering, check for root rot at the base of the plant.
Preventing yellow leaves in Pothos
Only water once the soil has dried out completely (roughly every 1–2 weeks, longer in low light), and use a pot with drainage holes.