Pothos is known for its easy care and beautiful trailing vines, but curling leaves often indicate that something is off in its environment or care routine. Leaf curling in pothos can result from issues like improper watering, temperature stress, low humidity, or pest infestations. Understanding these causes helps you bring your pothos back to full health quickly.
1. Underwatering
One of the most common reasons for pothos leaves curling is lack of water. When the soil stays too dry for long, the plant conserves moisture by curling its leaves inward.
Fix: Water your pothos thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot.
2. Overwatering
While underwatering causes dryness, too much water can suffocate the roots, leading to stress and curling leaves. Yellowing and soft leaves often accompany this problem.
Fix: Let the soil dry out before watering again. Use a well-draining mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss.
3. Low Humidity
Pothos naturally thrives in humid environments. If your home’s air is too dry, especially during winter, leaves may curl and turn brown at the edges.
Fix: Mist your plant regularly, use a humidity tray, or place a humidifier nearby to maintain moisture in the air.
4. Temperature Stress
Extreme temperatures can also make pothos leaves curl. Cold drafts, heaters, or sudden temperature changes put stress on the plant.
Fix: Keep your pothos in a room between 65°F and 85°F. Avoid placing it near windows or vents where temperature fluctuates.
5. Pest Infestation
Insects like spider mites, aphids, and thrips can suck sap from pothos leaves, causing curling, spots, and damage.
Fix: Inspect the undersides of the leaves and stems. Wipe them with a mixture of water and mild dish soap, or use neem oil to remove pests.
6. Nutrient Deficiency
Lack of essential nutrients, especially nitrogen and magnesium, can weaken the plant, leading to curled or discolored leaves.
Fix: Feed your pothos with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can burn the roots.
7. Root Bound Plant
If your pothos has outgrown its pot, the roots may become tangled and compacted, limiting water and nutrient absorption.
Fix: Check if roots are growing through the drainage holes. Repot the plant in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil to allow healthy root growth.
How to Prevent Pothos Leaves from Curling
- Water consistently, avoiding over or under-watering.
- Keep your plant in indirect bright light.
- Maintain humidity between 50–60%.
- Fertilize monthly during spring and summer.
- Regularly inspect for pests and clean the leaves.
By following these steps, your pothos will recover and display lush, flat, and healthy leaves again.
FAQs
Should I cut off curled pothos leaves?
If the leaves are severely curled or damaged, trimming them helps the plant redirect energy to new healthy growth.
Can too much sunlight cause pothos leaves to curl?
Yes, direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, causing them to curl or become crispy. Place your pothos in bright, indirect light instead.
How long does it take for pothos to recover from curling leaves?
Recovery usually takes a few weeks once you fix the underlying issue, like watering or humidity.
Why are new pothos leaves curling?
New leaves may curl temporarily while developing, but persistent curling indicates stress from light, water, or pests.
Does repotting help with leaf curling?
Yes, if the plant is root-bound, repotting gives it space to grow and improves nutrient absorption, which helps the leaves uncurl.
