Pothos plants are loved for their lush, green leaves and easy care. But when those leaves start turning brown, it can be worrying for plant owners. Brown leaves often signal that your pothos is stressed or not getting the right care. The good news is that identifying the cause early can help you bring your plant back to full health.
Common Reasons Your Pothos Leaves Turn Brown
1. Overwatering or Poor Drainage
One of the most common reasons pothos leaves turn brown is overwatering. When the soil stays too wet, the roots suffocate and rot, leading to brown spots and wilting leaves.
Fix: Let the top inch of soil dry before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent water buildup.
2. Underwatering
On the other hand, not giving your pothos enough water can also cause brown leaf edges or crispy tips. The plant becomes dehydrated and struggles to maintain healthy foliage.
Fix: Water your pothos thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting it dry out completely for too long.
3. Low Humidity
Pothos plants thrive in humid environments. When indoor air becomes too dry, especially in winter, the leaves can develop brown tips.
Fix: Increase humidity by misting your plant, using a humidifier, or placing a tray of water nearby.
4. Too Much Direct Sunlight
Pothos prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, leaving brown or yellow patches.
Fix: Move your plant to a spot with filtered light or partial shade. East or north-facing windows are ideal.
5. Cold Drafts or Temperature Changes
Exposure to cold air or sudden temperature drops can shock your pothos, leading to brown or curled leaves.
Fix: Keep your plant in a stable environment between 65°F and 85°F. Avoid placing it near air conditioners, heaters, or open windows.
6. Fertilizer Burn
Using too much fertilizer or feeding too often can cause salt buildup in the soil, which damages the roots and turns leaves brown.
Fix: Feed your pothos only once a month during the growing season using a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Flush the soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
7. Pests and Diseases
Spider mites, mealybugs, or fungal infections can also cause brown patches or leaf spots.
Fix: Check both sides of the leaves regularly. Wipe them with a damp cloth and use insecticidal soap or neem oil if pests are found.
How to Prevent Browning in Pothos
- Use well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging.
- Maintain consistent watering habits.
- Keep your pothos in indirect light.
- Clean leaves regularly to remove dust and pests.
- Trim brown or damaged leaves to encourage new growth.
When to Be Concerned
If browning is spreading quickly or new leaves are also turning brown, it may be a sign of root rot or serious stress. In this case, remove the plant from its pot, trim rotted roots, and repot in fresh soil.
FAQs
Should I cut off brown leaves on my pothos?
Yes, trimming brown or dead leaves helps your plant focus its energy on new, healthy growth.
Can brown pothos leaves turn green again?
Unfortunately, once a leaf turns brown, it cannot revert to green. Removing the damaged part helps the plant stay healthy.
Why are the tips of my pothos turning brown?
Brown tips are usually caused by low humidity or inconsistent watering. Try maintaining a stable moisture level and increase humidity.
How often should I water my pothos?
Water your pothos every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on temperature and humidity. Always check soil moisture before watering.
Final Thoughts
If your pothos is turning brown, don’t panic. The issue is often easy to fix once you identify the cause. By adjusting watering habits, improving lighting, and maintaining humidity, you can restore your pothos to its lush, vibrant state. With a little care and attention, your plant will continue to thrive and brighten up your space.
