Pothos winter care mainly depends on correct watering, airy soil, and right indoor light. During winter the plant becomes slow, so the care method also changes. I am sharing my real experience of growing pothos indoors for many years.
I grow pothos in rooms, balcony corners, and even on shelves. Winter is the only time when I stay very careful with watering. In my experience, most problems in pothos winter care come from wrong watering and poor soil. When water and soil are balanced, pothos stays fully healthy in winter. These practical tips are based on my hands-on gardening knowledge.
IN THIS ARTICLE
How Winter Affects Pothos Growth
Winter slows down plant activity. The plant uses less water, less nutrients, and produces fewer new leaves. Many people think plant is dying in winter, but actually the plant is resting. If we give it the right environment, it remains healthy and green.
Winter conditions mean:
- Less watering required
- Soil should drain moisture
- Plant needs bright indirect light
- Avoid cold airflow
Simple Summary of Pothos Winter Care
- Water only when top soil is dry
- Use loose, airy and fast draining soil
- Keep in bright indirect light
- Avoid direct afternoon sun
- Do not over fertilize in cold days
Winter Watering Rules for Pothos
Winter watering is the most important part of pothos care. The soil remains moist for longer in cold weather, so extra water harms the roots.
When I Water
I always check the soil first. If the top 2 inches are fully dry, then only I give water. If soil feels cool or moist, I skip watering. In most winter days, I water pothos every 12 to 18 days.
How I Water
I use room temperature water. I pour slowly, not too much. I never allow water to stand in the bottom tray because standing water causes root rot.
Signs of Overwatering
- Yellow leaves
- Weak stems
- Smelly soil
- Leaves falling
If any of these signs appear, I immediately reduce watering.
Best Soil Mix for Pothos in Winter
Soil decides root health in winter. Winter air is moist so heavy soil stays wet for long. Wet soil damages roots.
My Soil Mix
- 50% garden soil
- 30% cocopeat
- 20% perlite or sand
Soil Mistakes to Avoid
This makes soil light, airy and draining. The plant roots can breathe, and winter moisture does not sit for long.
I never use heavy clay soil, because it holds moisture and roots start rotting. If soil looks sticky or stays wet many days, I change the soil mix.
Light Needs for Pothos in Winter
Light is very important in winter. Without proper light pothos leaves look dull.
Best Spots Indoors
I keep pothos near a window where light is bright but indirect. Living room corners also work if they get natural light. A shaded balcony also works fine.
When Pothos Gets Less Light
Plant shows dull, light green leaves. Growth becomes slow. Sometimes leaves turn yellow. When I see this, I shift the plant to a brighter location.
Avoid Direct Sun
Winter afternoon direct sunlight can burn leaves. So I always avoid direct sun touching leaves.
Temperature and Humidity Care
Pothos can handle mild cold, but it does not like sudden cold airflow.
- Best indoor temperature: 16°C to 26°C
- Keep away from open windows at night
- Do not place near AC cold air
If the room is very dry, I place a bowl of water nearby to maintain little humidity. I do not mist the leaves daily in winter.
Fertilizer Use in Winter
In winter, the plant is resting. So I do not give heavy fertilizer. If needed, I give only light liquid fertilizer once in 30 days. Heavy feeding harms roots in winter.
Propagation in Winter
Pothos propagation is slow in winter. If I want to propagate, I do it in water.
- I use clean water
- I change it every week
- I keep the jar in a bright warm place
Roots take more time in winter, but it is safe.
Common Winter Problems and Their Solutions
- Yellow leaves – caused by extra water. Reduce watering.
- Weak roots – caused by heavy soil. Change to airy soil mix.
- Pale leaves – caused by low light. Keep plant in brighter place.
Conclusion
Pothos winter care becomes simple when we follow three rules: water less, use airy soil, and give bright indirect light. I use these same steps every winter and my pothos stays green and healthy. Winter is a resting period for the plant, so care should be simple and balanced.
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