Why Is My Pothos Falling Over?

Ah, the pothos—a beloved plant that many of us have cherished in our homes. Its vibrant green leaves and forgiving nature make it a top choice for both new and seasoned plant lovers. However, even the most seasoned plant parent can find themselves asking, "Why is my pothos falling over?"

In this article, we're going to explore the various reasons why your pothos might be struggling to stay upright. From watering issues to potting problems, we'll cover it all. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let's dive into the mysteries of your droopy green friend.

Understanding Your Pothos Plant

Before we tackle the reasons behind a falling pothos, it's helpful to know a bit about this plant. The pothos, also known as Epipremnum aureum, is a hardy vine that thrives in a variety of conditions. It's often referred to as the "Devil's Ivy" because it's tough to kill and stays green even when kept in the dark. But don't let the nickname fool you—this plant still needs some TLC.

Pothos are native to the Solomon Islands, where they're used to climbing trees and receiving filtered sunlight. In your home, they'll appreciate a similar environment. They can adapt to low light but prefer bright, indirect light. Though they're resilient, they do have some quirks that, if not addressed, can lead to a wobbly plant.

Watering Woes

One of the most common reasons a pothos might start to fall over is related to water—either too much or too little. Pothos plants are not very demanding when it comes to watering, but they do have preferences.

Overwatering

Overwatering is a common pitfall. When the soil is too wet, the roots can suffocate, leading to root rot. This unhealthy root system can't support the plant, causing it to droop. If you notice yellowing leaves or a musty smell from the soil, these are signs of overwatering.

To rescue your plant, try the following:

• Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels wet, hold off on watering.
• Ensure your pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
• If root rot has set in, consider repotting the plant in fresh, dry soil and removing any mushy roots.

Underwatering

On the flip side, underwatering can also cause problems. Pothos leaves will wilt and curl when they're thirsty. If the soil pulls away from the edges of the pot, it's a sign that your plant is parched.

Here's how to address underwatering:

• Water your pothos thoroughly, allowing water to drain out the bottom of the pot.
• Establish a regular watering schedule, typically once a week, but adjust based on the humidity and temperature in your home.
• Consider using a moisture meter to more accurately gauge when your plant needs water.

Light Levels

While pothos are champions at surviving in low light, they won't thrive in the darkest corner of your home. Insufficient light can lead to weak, leggy growth that makes the plant droop.

To improve lighting conditions:

• Move your pothos to a spot where it can receive bright, indirect light. A north or east-facing window is ideal.
• If natural light is scarce, consider supplementing with a grow light.
• Rotate your plant every few weeks to ensure even growth.

Potting Problems

The pot and soil you're using might also be contributing to your pothos's woes. A pot that's too large or too small can lead to instability.

Pot Size

If the pot is too large, the soil can retain more water than the plant needs, leading to root rot. Conversely, a pot that's too small can restrict root growth and make it easier for the plant to topple.

Find the right pot by ensuring:

• The pot is about 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.
• There are drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.

Soil Type

Pothos prefer a well-draining potting mix. A standard houseplant mix works well, or you can add perlite or sand to improve drainage.

When repotting, make sure to:

• Gently loosen the roots if they're circling the pot.
• Plant at the same soil depth to avoid causing stress to the plant.

Temperature and Humidity

While pothos are adaptable, they're still tropical plants at heart. Extreme temperature fluctuations or low humidity can stress them out, causing them to droop.

Ideal conditions include:

• Temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C), avoiding drafts from windows or doors.
• A humidity level of around 40-60%. If your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant.

Pruning and Training

Pothos are natural climbers, and without support, they might flop over. Regular pruning and providing a trellis or pole can encourage upward growth.

Here's how to manage your pothos's growth:

• Trim back overgrown vines to encourage bushier growth.
• Use soft ties to attach vines to a support structure.
• Regularly check for any vines that are growing out of control and trim as needed.

Pests and Diseases

While generally resilient, pothos can occasionally fall victim to pests or diseases. Common culprits include spider mites, mealybugs, and fungal infections.

To tackle these issues:

• Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pests, such as webbing or white fluff.
• Remove pests manually or with a gentle spray of water.
• For fungal issues, ensure good air circulation and remove any affected leaves.

Root Health

Finally, the health of the roots themselves can affect the stability of your pothos. If the roots are cramped or unhealthy, they can't support the plant properly.

To check root health:

• Gently remove the plant from its pot and examine the roots.
• Look for firm, white roots. Brown or mushy roots indicate rot.
• Trim any damaged roots and repot the plant in fresh soil.

Conclusion

In summary, if your pothos is falling over, consider factors like watering habits, light exposure, pot size, and root health. Adjusting these conditions can help your plant regain its vigor and continue to thrive.

At Cafe Planta, we understand the joys and challenges of nurturing houseplants. We offer a range of plants, accessories, and advice to help you create a beautiful, thriving plant collection. If you have any questions, feel free to email us or send us a message on Instagram. Let's grow together!