How to Treat and Prevent Root Rot in Pothos

Pothos are a popular and resilient houseplant, but they are susceptible to root rot. This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi that flourish in overly wet conditions, leading to the decay of the plant’s root system. When roots fail, they can no longer absorb the water and nutrients needed for survival. Recognizing the issue early and taking corrective action can save the plant and restore its health.

Identifying Root Rot in Pothos

The first signs of root rot appear on the plant’s foliage. Symptoms include the yellowing of leaves, particularly the lower ones, and slowed or stopped growth. You may also notice wilting or drooping leaves, which can be confusing as it mimics a thirsty plant even when the soil is moist. This happens because the decaying roots have lost their ability to take up water, effectively dehydrating the plant.

To confirm root rot, you must inspect the root system. Gently slide the pothos out of its pot for a clear view. Healthy roots are firm and white or light tan. In contrast, rotted roots will be dark brown or black, feel soft and mushy, and may fall apart when handled. A foul odor similar to rotten vegetation also confirms the presence of decay.

Treating an Infected Pothos

Once root rot is confirmed, remove the plant from its pot and gently rinse all the old soil from the root ball with lukewarm water. This allows for a clear inspection of the entire root system. Be careful not to damage any remaining healthy roots, as they are the foundation for the plant’s recovery.

With the roots exposed, use sterilized scissors or pruning shears to trim away all dark, mushy portions. You must be thorough and remove every trace of decay, as any infected tissue left behind can allow the rot to spread again. To prevent cross-contamination, sterilize your cutting tool between snips.

After trimming, treat the healthy roots to eliminate lingering fungal pathogens. A diluted hydrogen peroxide solution is effective for this. Combine one part 3% hydrogen peroxide with two parts water, then either spray it on the roots or briefly soak them in the mixture. This helps kill harmful bacteria and introduces oxygen to aid recovery.

If a large portion of the root system was removed, the plant may not be able to support all its leaves. To balance the plant and reduce stress on the remaining roots, prune back some of the foliage. Trimming a corresponding amount of vines and leaves helps the plant direct its energy toward regrowing roots instead of maintaining a large canopy.

Repotting After Treatment

After treatment, providing a fresh environment is the next step. Choose a new pot with adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. If you reuse the old pot, it must be sterilized to kill any pathogens. A solution of one part bleach to nine parts water is effective for this; wash the pot with the solution and let it dry completely.

The soil choice is also important. A fresh, well-draining potting mix is needed to prevent the conditions that cause root rot. An ideal mix for a recovering pothos is light and airy, which can be achieved with ingredients like perlite, orchid bark, or coconut coir. These materials create air pockets, preventing compaction and ensuring water drains freely.

To repot, fill the bottom of the clean pot with a layer of fresh potting mix. Place the treated plant in the center, spreading its roots over the soil base. Fill in around the plant with more soil, ensuring it is at the same depth as before. Lightly pat the soil to secure the plant, but avoid compacting it to maintain an airy environment for the roots.

Preventing Future Root Rot

Proper watering habits are the most effective way to prevent root rot. Pothos do not respond well to a fixed schedule, as their needs change with environmental conditions. Instead, use the “soak and dry” method by checking the soil moisture. Water the plant thoroughly only when the top one to two inches of soil feel completely dry.

Proper drainage is a continuous effort. Always use pots with drainage holes to allow excess water to flow out. After watering, check the saucer beneath the pot and discard any standing water. Allowing a pothos to sit in water creates the saturated soil conditions that lead to root rot.

The type of soil used plays a constant role in root health. Dense potting soils can retain too much moisture, increasing the risk of rot. Consistently use a well-draining, chunky soil mix with materials like perlite or orchid bark. This helps maintain aeration around the roots and is a primary defense against future root issues.