Does Pothos Like Humidity: The Ultimate Guide

Oleh Johanna Bechtelar May 20, 2023 Post a Comment

Pothos is one of the most popular houseplants due to its low maintenance and ability to thrive in various conditions. However, many plant enthusiasts are left wondering if pothos likes humidity and how much humidity it needs to grow healthy.

In this guide, we will explore the relationship between pothos and humidity. We will discuss the ideal humidity levels for pothos, how to increase or decrease humidity, and the benefits and drawbacks of high and low humidity.

Introduction: Understanding Pothos

Before we dive into the specifics of pothos and humidity, let's first understand a little bit about this plant. Pothos, also known as Devil's Ivy, is a vine plant that belongs to the Araceae family. This plant is native to French Polynesia and has become a popular houseplant worldwide due to its adaptability and low maintenance requirements.

Pothos is a hardy plant that can tolerate different light conditions, ranging from low to bright indirect light. It also thrives in a range of temperatures, but prefers temperatures between 60°F to 80°F. However, humidity plays a crucial role in pothos growth and development. Let's find out more about the relationship between pothos and humidity.

How Much Humidity Does Pothos Need?

Pothos plants thrive in moderate to high levels of humidity, ranging from 40% to 70%. These levels mimic the natural humidity levels found in the tropical regions where pothos originally comes from.

High humidity helps pothos by keeping the leaves moist, which makes it easier for the plant to absorb nutrients through the leaves. High humidity also helps prevent leaf drop and keeps the plant looking lush and green. In contrast, low humidity levels can cause the leaves to dry out, turn brown, and fall off.

How to Increase Humidity for Pothos?

There are several ways to increase humidity levels for pothos. One of the easiest ways is to group your plants together. Grouping plants together can create a microclimate that increases humidity levels around the plants.

Another way to increase humidity is by placing a humidifier near your plant. A humidifier adds moisture into the air, which can help increase humidity levels. You can also place a tray filled with water near your plant. As the water evaporates, it increases humidity levels around the plant.

How to Decrease Humidity for Pothos?

While pothos prefers moderate to high humidity levels, too much humidity can lead to problems such as fungal growth, root rot, and pest infestations. If you live in a humid climate or have a room that tends to be overly humid, there are a few things you can do to decrease humidity levels for your pothos.

One way to decrease humidity levels is by using a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air, which can help lower humidity levels. Another way to decrease humidity is by using an air conditioner. Air conditioning not only cools the room but also removes moisture from the air.

Benefits of High Humidity for Pothos

High humidity can benefit pothos in several ways. First, it helps prevent leaf drop, which can be caused by dry air. Second, it keeps the leaves moist, which makes it easier for the plant to absorb nutrients through the leaves. Third, it helps prevent spider mites and other pests that thrive in dry conditions.

Drawbacks of High Humidity for Pothos

While high humidity can benefit pothos, it can also lead to problems if it's too high. Excess moisture can lead to fungal growth, root rot, and pest infestations. High humidity can also make the plant more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections.

Benefits of Low Humidity for Pothos

Low humidity can benefit pothos by reducing the risk of fungal growth, root rot, and pest infestations. It can also help prevent bacterial and viral infections.

Drawbacks of Low Humidity for Pothos

While low humidity can benefit pothos in some ways, it can also lead to problems if it's too low. Low humidity can cause the leaves to dry out, turn brown, and fall off. It can also make the plant more susceptible to spider mites and other pests that thrive in dry conditions.

Signs of Low Humidity for Pothos

If your pothos is not getting enough humidity, you may notice several signs. The leaves may to curl or wilt, and the edges of the leaves may turn brown. You may also notice that the plant is losing leaves or that the leaves are turning yellow.

Signs of High Humidity for Pothos

If your pothos is getting too much humidity, you may notice several signs. The leaves may appear waterlogged and to turn yellow or brown. You may also notice that the plant is developing mold or mildew on the leaves or in the soil.

Best Ways to Measure Humidity Levels for Pothos

To ensure that your pothos is getting the right amount of humidity, you need to measure the humidity levels regularly. There are several ways to measure humidity levels, including using a hygrometer, a digital thermometer, or a moisture meter.

A hygrometer measures the relative humidity in the air. A digital thermometer measures the temperature and humidity in the room. A moisture meter measures the amount of moisture in the soil.

How Often Should You Water Pothos?

Watering frequency for pothos depends on several factors, including the size of the plant, the size of the pot, and the humidity levels in your home. In general, you should water your pothos when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

During the winter months, when humidity levels tend to be lower, you may need to water your pothos less frequently. During the summer months, when humidity levels tend to be higher, you may need to water your pothos more frequently.

Best Soil Type for Pothos

Pothos grows best in well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. You can use a regular potting mix or create your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

It's essential to avoid using heavy soils that hold too much moisture as this can lead to root rot. You should also avoid using garden soil or clay soil, which can become compacted and prevent drainage.

Best Pot Size for Pothos

When it comes to pot size, pothos prefers to be slightly root-bound. A pot that's too large can hold too much moisture and increase the risk of root rot. A pot that's too small can restrict growth and lead to stunted plants.

The ideal pot size for pothos depends on the size of the plant. As a rule of thumb, choose a pot that's one size larger than the current pot. For example, if your pothos is in a 6-inch pot, move it to an 8-inch pot.

Can Pothos Grow in Water?

Yes, pothos can grow in water. This method of growing pothos is called hydroponics. To grow pothos in water, place cuttings in a container filled with water. Make sure the container is clean, and the cuttings are not touching the bottom of the container.

You should change the water every two to three weeks and make sure that the water level remains consistent. You can also add liquid fertilizer to the water every four to six weeks to provide nutrients for the plant.

How to Propagate Pothos

Propagating pothos is easy and can be using stem cuttings. To propagate pothos, take a cutting that's at least 4 inches long and has several leaves. Remove the bottom leaves and place the cutting in water or soil.

If you're propagating in water, make sure the water level remains consistent and change the water every two to three weeks. If you're propagating in soil, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Roots should to form within two to four weeks.

: Caring for Pothos

In summary, pothos likes moderate to high levels of humidity, ranging from 40% to 70%. High humidity helps prevent leaf drop, keeps the leaves moist, and prevents pests. Low humidity can cause the leaves to dry out and fall off.

To increase humidity levels, you can group your plants together, use a humidifier, or place a tray filled with water near your plant. To decrease humidity levels, you can use a dehumidifier or air conditioning.

It's essential to monitor humidity levels regularly and adjust watering frequency accordingly. Pothos grows best in well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. It prefers to be slightly root-bound and can grow in water. Propagation is easy and can be using stem cuttings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What humidity level is too high for pothos?

A1. Pothos prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ranging from 40% to 70%. However, humidity levels above 70% can lead to problems such as fungal growth, root rot, and pest infestations.

Q2. Can pothos tolerate low humidity?

A2. Pothos can tolerate low humidity levels, but it can cause the leaves to dry out and fall off. It's essential to monitor humidity levels regularly and adjust watering frequency accordingly.

Q3. How often should I mist my pothos?

A3. Misting your pothos can help increase humidity levels around the plant. However, misting alone is not enough to provide adequate moisture for the plant. In general, you should mist your pothos every two to three days.

Q4. Can pothos grow in direct sunlight?

A4. Pothos prefers bright indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. However, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and lead to leaf drop.

Q5. What is the best fertilizer for pothos?

A5. Pothos prefers a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can use a liquid fertilizer or slow-release fertilizer pellets.

Q6. Why are the leaves on my pothos turning yellow?

A6. Yellow leaves on a pothos can be caused by several factors, including overwatering, underwatering, too much direct sunlight, and pests.

Q7. How tall can pothos grow?

A7. Pothos can grow up to 10 feet long if given enough space and support. However, most indoor pothos plants grow between 4 to 6 feet long.

Q8. How do I know when to repot my pothos?

A8. You should repot your pothos when it becomes root-bound. Signs of a root-bound plant include roots growing through the drainage holes, yellowing leaves, and slowed growth.

Q9. Can pothos grow in low light?

A9. Pothos can tolerate low light conditions but will grow best in bright indirect light. If grown in low light, the plant may become leggy and have smaller leaves.

Q10. Can pothos grow outdoors?

A10. Pothos is an indoor plant and does not tolerate cold temperatures or direct sunlight. It's best to keep pothos indoors where it can thrive in a controlled environment.