How to Treat Root Rot on Pothos in Water

Pothos plants are adaptable and often grown as cuttings in a vase of water. This popular method carries a risk of root rot, a condition where roots decay from a lack of oxygen and the growth of certain microorganisms. Understanding how to spot, address, and prevent this problem is important for keeping water-grown pothos healthy. This guide will walk through the steps to diagnose and treat root rot, ensuring your plant can recover.

Identifying Root Rot in Water-Grown Pothos

To diagnose root rot, you must first know what healthy roots look like. Healthy pothos roots in water are white or cream-colored and feel firm and fleshy to the touch. The surrounding water should be clear and without any strong, unpleasant smells.

The signs of root rot are a stark contrast. The primary indicator is the appearance of the roots, which will turn brown or black. Instead of being firm, they will become soft, mushy, and may feel slimy, sometimes falling apart with a gentle touch.

Other signs include the condition of the water and the plant’s foliage. The water may become cloudy, murky, or develop a foul, swampy odor from decomposition. As the compromised roots fail to absorb nutrients, the plant’s leaves may turn yellow, wilt, or droop, even though it is sitting in water.

How to Treat Pothos Root Rot

Once you identify root rot, act immediately. Carefully remove the pothos cutting from its container and take it to a sink. Rinse the roots under cool, running water to wash away the slimy film and any loose, decayed matter. This gives you a clearer view of the damage.

Next, use sharp, sterile scissors or pruning shears to trim away the affected parts. Sterilize your tool with rubbing alcohol or a bleach solution before and after use to prevent spreading pathogens. Cut off all roots that are brown, black, or mushy, trimming back to healthy, white tissue. Be thorough, as any infected material left behind can allow the rot to return.

The plant’s container also needs to be cleaned. Wash the vessel with hot, soapy water, and then sanitize it with a diluted bleach or vinegar solution before rinsing it completely. Place the pothos with its trimmed roots back into the sterilized container and fill it with fresh, room-temperature water, ensuring only the roots and a small portion of the stem are submerged.

Preventing Future Root Rot

Preventing the recurrence of root rot involves maintaining a healthy environment for your plant’s roots:

• Change the water every 7 to 14 days. Stagnant water loses dissolved oxygen, creating an anaerobic environment where harmful bacteria and fungi thrive. A complete water change replenishes the oxygen supply and removes waste products.
• Clean the container with each water change. A film of algae and bacteria can build up on the inside surfaces of the vessel. Scrubbing the container with a brush and warm water removes this buildup and helps keep pathogenic microbes in check.
• Use appropriate water. Tap water can contain chemicals like chlorine that may stress the plant. While using filtered or distilled water is an option, allowing tap water to sit out for 24 hours is also effective as it lets much of the chlorine dissipate.
• Provide adequate lighting and monitor the plant. Placing your pothos in bright, indirect sunlight promotes stronger growth, making it more resilient. Using a clear glass container is also useful, as it allows you to easily monitor the roots for signs of trouble without disturbing the plant.