The yellowing of pothos leaves is most commonly caused by either overwatering or underwatering, both of which stress the plant. Overwatering leads to root rot and suffocated roots which cannot absorb nutrients or water properly, resulting in yellow leaves. Underwatering causes the plant to pull water from the older leaves, starting the yellowing at the leaf edges or tips. Besides watering issues, other causes include insufficient or excessive light, nutrient deficiencies (like nitrogen, magnesium, iron, or potassium), poor drainage, temperature stress (too cold), and natural aging of leaves. Yellow leaves from natural aging typically occur on older leaves and are less concerning.
Common causes of pothos yellow leaves:
- Overwatering: Roots rot due to waterlogged soil causing yellowing, black stems, and potential leaf drop.
- Underwatering: Soil too dry causes drooping, yellow leaves, sometimes with crispy brown tips.
- Lack of Light: Low light slows growth and chlorophyll production, leading to faded or yellow leaves.
- Too Much Direct Sunlight: Burns leaves causing yellow or brown patches.
- Nutrient Deficiency: Lack of nitrogen or other essential minerals leads to yellowing older or younger leaves.
- Poor Drainage: Soil that doesn't drain well keeps roots soggy and unhealthy.
- Temperature Stress: Cold conditions below about 70 F (21 C) cause yellowing and leaf drop.
- Natural Aging: Older leaves yellow and drop as the plant grows new foliage.
How to fix it:
- Allow soil to dry out between waterings; water when top 1-2 inches of soil are dry.
- Ensure good drainage in pot and soil mix.
- Provide bright, indirect light rather than direct sunlight.
- Fertilize during growing seasons with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
- Remove yellow leaves so plant can focus energy on healthy new growth.
- Keep the plant in warm temperatures and avoid drafts.
Following these care tips should help remedy and prevent your pothos from turning yellow.
