Why Does My Pothos Have Brown Spots on the Leaves?

If you’ve noticed brown spots appearing on the leaves of your pothos plant, you’re probably wondering what’s causing the problem. As an avid pothos grower myself, I’ve dealt with those pesky brown spots a time or two!

In this article, we’ll cover the most common reasons for brown spots on pothos leaves and what you can do to fix them. With just a few simple adjustments to your care routine, you can get your pothos back to its vibrant, healthy self.

What Causes Brown Spots on Pothos Leaves?

There are several possible culprits for those brown spots

Underwatering

Pothos don’t need frequent watering, but allowing the soil to completely dry out can lead to brown spots on the leaves. The lower, older leaves tend to show signs of underwater stress first.

Overwatering

On the other hand, soil that’s too wet can cause root rot. This fungal infection damages the roots so they can’t properly absorb moisture and nutrients. As root rot spreads, the leaves develop brown spots. Again, the lower leaves generally show symptoms first.

Bacterial Leaf Spot

This infection shows up as brown or black spots, sometimes with yellowing. It’s often caused by overly damp soil. Removing affected leaves, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, and increasing airflow around your pothos can help clear it up.

Too Much Sun

Direct sunlight can scorch pothos leaves. Leaf burn can happen if your plant is in a sunny window. The leaves may turn brown or get crisp. Filter the light or move it to a shadier spot.

Low Humidity

Pothos prefer at least 50% humidity. When it’s dry inside, the edges and tips of leaves often turn brown. Putting plants together, using a humidifier, and misting plants every once in a while can all make the air more humid.

Over-fertilizing

Pothos leaves can get brown spots or streaks if they get too much fertilizer on them. Once or twice a year is enough fertilizer for these plants. Flush the soil to remove excess salts.

Pests

Bugs like mealybugs, spider mites, and scales eat the leaves and sap of pothos plants. This can cause brown, damaged spots on the foliage. It’s important to get rid of infestations quickly, before they get worse.

Cold Temperatures

If your pothos sits near a drafty window or AC vent, the cold air can shock it, resulting in brown spots. Keep it in temperatures between 65-85°F and away from cold air sources.

What to Do About Brown Spots on Your Pothos

Now that you know what causes those pesky brown spots, here are some tips to get your pothos healthy again:

• Adjust your watering schedule. Pothos want their soil to dry out between waterings. Check for moisture before watering again.

• If overwatering, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Repot in fresh soil if root rot is present.

• Increase humidity around your plant with misting, a humidifier, or grouping plants together.

• Move pothos away from bright light sources if brown spots are caused by too much sun.

• Check for pests like spider mites. Remove them with gentle hosing, neem oil, or alcohol/soap applications.

• Apply an Epsom salt spray monthly to provide magnesium and boost leaf health.

• Flush soil to remove excess fertilizer salts. Resume fertilizing lightly once every 2-3 months.

• Trim off badly affected leaves, but don’t remove more than 1/3 of foliage at once.

• Ensure pothos is kept above 65°F. Move it away from cold windows, vents, or doors.

With a little detective work and some adjustments to care, those brown spots on your pothos will disappear in no time! Just be patient and consistent with remedies. Your plant will bounce back thanks to the excellent care you’re giving it.