The green pothos (also known as Devil's Ivy) is one of the most popular indoor plants. Its heart-shaped leaves and easy care make it an ideal choice for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.

But while it may seem like a low-maintenance plant, there are a few key mistakes we should avoid when caring for our pothos to keep it healthy and thriving. Let's dive into some of the most common mistakes and how we can prevent them.

1. Overwatering: A Silent Killer

One of the most common mistakes we make with green pothos is overwatering. It's easy to assume that plants need lots of water to stay healthy, but pothos actually prefer to dry out between waterings. When we water too often, the roots can rot, leading to a sickly plant.

To avoid this, we should only water the pothos when the top inch or so of the soil feels dry to the touch. You can stick your finger into the soil to check if it's time for a drink. Make sure the pot has proper drainage, too. Standing water can quickly lead to root rot.

2. Too Much Direct Sunlight

While pothos love bright light, too much direct sunlight can actually harm the plant. The leaves may start to turn yellow or get scorched. We often place our pothos in a sunny window, thinking it will thrive, but the intense rays can be too harsh for the plant.

The key is to place the pothos in a spot with indirect light. A location where the sun's rays aren't directly hitting the plant is ideal. A spot with bright, filtered light will encourage the pothos to grow lush and healthy without damaging the leaves.

3. Not Pruning Regularly

Green pothos plants are fast growers, and if we don't prune them regularly, they can become unruly and hard to manage. Letting the plant grow too long without trimming will also cause it to become leggy, meaning it will have long stems with few leaves.

To keep your pothos looking full and vibrant, we should prune the stems regularly. Cut the stems just above the leaf node (where the leaves grow). Not only will this encourage bushier growth, but it will also help keep the plant from becoming too tangled.

4. Using Poor Quality Soil

Another mistake we might make when caring for pothos is using poor quality soil. Pothos thrive in well-draining soil that retains moisture but doesn't become soggy. Soil that's too heavy or compacted can cause poor root development and increase the risk of root rot.

We should use a good-quality potting mix designed for houseplants, and we can even add some perlite or sand to improve drainage. This will allow the roots to breathe and grow freely, preventing issues like waterlogging.

5. Ignoring Pests

Pothos are generally low-maintenance, but that doesn't mean they are immune to pests. Aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs can sometimes target our pothos, especially if the plant is stressed. If we notice tiny webs, spots on the leaves, or a sticky residue, pests might be the cause.

We should inspect the leaves and stems regularly for signs of pests. If we do find any, a gentle rinse with water can help remove them. In more severe cases, we might need to use an insecticidal soap to treat the plant. Regularly cleaning the leaves with a damp cloth can also help keep pests at bay.

6. Letting the Plant Sit in Water

Some people might think it's okay to leave their pothos sitting in water, especially when it comes to watering methods like the self-watering pot. However, allowing the pothos to sit in water for too long can cause the roots to suffocate, leading to root rot and other problems.

To avoid this mistake, we should always make sure that any excess water can drain away from the pot. If the pot sits in a saucer or tray, we should empty it out after watering. This ensures that the plant's roots are never sitting in stagnant water.

7. Not Repotting When Needed

Just like any other plant, pothos need to be repotted occasionally. Over time, the roots can become cramped and the plant may stop growing or show signs of stress. We should repot our pothos every 1-2 years, depending on how quickly it grows. When repotting, choose a pot that's one size larger than the current one to give the roots room to grow.

If we notice that the roots are growing out of the drainage holes or the plant isn't as lush as it used to be, it's probably time for a new pot.

Conclusion: Care for Your Pothos with Confidence

By avoiding these common mistakes, we can keep our green pothos healthy, happy, and thriving. Remember, pothos may be low-maintenance, but they still need a little attention to detail. With just a few simple adjustments to our care routine, we can enjoy a beautiful, vibrant plant for years to come.

Do you have a pothos plant at home, Lykkers? What's your favorite tip for keeping it healthy? Feel free to share your experiences with us!