If you’re noticing that your pothos leaves are getting smaller, there could be a few different reasons. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common causes and offer some tips to help you get your plant back to optimal health.
Reasons for Smaller Pothos Leaves
Insufficient Light
One common reason for smaller pothos leaves is insufficient light. Pothos plants typically thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, but they may still adapt to lower light conditions. However, this adaptation can result in smaller leaves due to the lack of energy required for optimal growth. Make sure your pothos receives enough light daily by placing it near a window with indirect sunlight or using artificial grow lights.
Inadequate Watering
Improper watering is another reason why pothos leaves may become smaller. Both overwatering and underwatering can lead to issues such as reduced growth, smaller leaves, and root rot. To prevent this, monitor the moisture levels in the soil and water your pothos only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water and ensure proper drainage to facilitate healthy growth.
Poor Nutrition
Nutrient deficiencies can result in smaller pothos leaves. Pothos plants require a balanced fertilizer with essential nutrients to maintain their foliage and produce larger leaves. To ensure proper nutrition, feed your pothos with a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, and reduce feeding during the winter months. This schedule will provide the plant with essential nutrients for optimal growth.
Pot Size Constraints
A small or crowded pot can limit the growth and development of your pothos plant. As the plant’s roots become constrained, it can lead to less growth overall and smaller leaves. To remedy this issue, repot the pothos into a larger pot with fresh and well-draining soil, allowing the roots to spread adequately. This process will help promote healthy growth and larger leaves in your pothos plant.
Proper Pothos Care
Light Requirements
Pothos plants require adequate light to maintain healthy foliage and produce larger leaves. They can tolerate low light conditions but thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Make sure to place your pothos near a window that receives indirect sunlight for most of the day. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light may cause the leaves to become smaller and less vibrant source.
Watering Techniques
Proper watering is essential for pothos plants. Overwatering or underwatering can lead to smaller leaves and other health issues. Make sure to water your pothos when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days. Always use well-draining soil and containers with drainage holes to prevent root rot caused by waterlogged soil. Adjust your watering schedule according to the humidity levels and temperature in your home source.
Fertilizing Tips
Pothos plants are not heavy feeders, but providing them with adequate nutrients can help promote larger leaves and overall growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 formula, for optimal results. Apply the fertilizer every 1-2 months during the growing season, taking care not to over-fertilize as this can cause leaf curling, discoloration, and smaller leaves source.
Repotting Guidelines
Regular repotting can help maintain the health of your pothos plant and encourage larger leaf growth. Ideally, pothos should be repotted every 1-2 years or when the roots become visible on the surface of the soil. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current container and use well-draining soil. Repotting allows the plant to access more nutrients and space to grow, contributing to healthier and larger leaves source.
Common Pothos Pests and Diseases
Root Rot
Root rot is a common issue with pothos plants, which occurs due to overwatering or poor drainage. The excess water in the soil leads to the development of mold or fungus, causing the plant’s roots to decay and turn brown or black. To prevent root rot, ensure the plant is placed in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If your pothos is already suffering from root rot, remove the affected roots and repot the plant with fresh soil.
Fungal Infections
Pothos plants can be susceptible to fungal infections such as Southern Blight or Bacterial Wilt, which cause parts of the leaves to turn brown and die off. These infections can spread quickly, so it’s important to prune off any affected leaves and stems as soon as you spot them. Maintaining proper humidity levels and good air circulation around your pothos can help prevent fungal infections from developing.
Pest Infestations
Pothos plants can fall victim to various pests, including:
- Spider mites: Tiny, spider-like insects that create webs and suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and leaf drop.
- Mealybugs: Small, white, cottony insects that feed on the plant’s sap and excrete a sticky honeydew, which can lead to mold growth.
- Thrips: Minuscule insects that feed on the plant’s sap, causing distorted or yellow leaves.
- Whiteflies: Tiny, white, moth-like insects that can cause yellowing and weak growth by feeding on the plant’s sap.
To control pest infestations, regularly inspect your pothos, remove any affected leaves or stems, and use natural or chemical pest-control methods as needed.
Helpful Video
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
