Why Does My Pothos Have Holes in Its Leaves?

Holes in the leaves of a pothos plant can appear for several reasons, from natural maturation to environmental issues requiring a change in care. Understanding the potential causes is the first step to identifying the specific reason for the holes on your plant. This guide will help you determine whether the openings are a sign of a healthy plant or an indication of a problem that needs addressing.

Natural Leaf Splitting in Pothos

A common reason for holes in pothos leaves is a natural process called fenestration, which indicates the plant is healthy and reaching maturity. These splits are an adaptation that, in the plant’s native habitat, allows sunlight to filter through to lower leaves and helps the large leaves withstand strong winds. This trait is most pronounced in varieties like Epipremnum pinnatum, which includes the Cebu Blue Pothos.

As these plants mature, their leaf shape transforms from the solid, heart-shaped leaves of their juvenile form to a more perforated structure. Mature Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), especially those given a structure to climb, can also develop these fenestrations. The holes from this process look distinct from damage, appearing as clean, symmetrical splits along the central midrib of the leaf. This is a positive development, not an issue to be fixed.

The appearance of these natural splits is linked to the plant’s age and growing conditions. For most indoor pothos, which often remain in a juvenile state, fenestration is less common. Providing your plant with ample indirect light and a moss pole to climb can encourage it to mature and develop these splits. Recognizing these holes as a sign of a thriving plant can save you from unnecessary concern.

Common Pests Causing Holes

When holes in your pothos leaves look ragged and irregular, they are often the work of pests. For plants kept outdoors, culprits like caterpillars, slugs, or grasshoppers are common suspects. These pests chew through the leaf tissue, leaving behind evidence of their meal. Caterpillars create uneven, chewed edges, while other insects might leave more rounded holes.

To confirm a pest issue, a careful inspection is necessary. Many pests are skilled at hiding, so check thoroughly, including the undersides of leaves and where leaves meet the stems. Some pests are nocturnal, so inspecting your plant after dark with a flashlight can be effective. If you find any, they can often be managed by picking them off by hand.

For persistent pest problems, other treatments can be considered. Mealybugs, for instance, suck sap from the plant, which can weaken the leaves and cause them to yellow and tear. These small, cottony insects can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. A broad-spectrum option for many chewing insects is neem oil, which can be applied to deter further damage.

Plant Diseases Resulting in Holes

Plant diseases can also lead to holes in the leaves, with a primary example being leaf spot disease. Caused by fungal or bacterial infections, these conditions are encouraged by overly wet environments, such as water sitting on the leaves or poor air circulation. Overwatering the soil can also make the plant more susceptible to these pathogens.

The process begins with small, discolored spots on the foliage, often brown or black and surrounded by a yellow halo. As the disease progresses, the tissue within these spots dies and dries out. Eventually, this dead tissue may fall away, leaving behind a small, round hole that gives the condition its “shot hole” appearance.

Managing this issue involves addressing the environmental conditions that favor the disease. First, prune away any leaves showing signs of infection to prevent the spores from spreading. To prevent future outbreaks, apply water directly to the soil, avoiding the foliage. Improving air circulation by providing more space between plants can also help keep the leaves dry.

Managing and Preventing Leaf Damage

Holes in pothos leaves can also be caused by physical damage from the plant’s environment. Accidental tearing can occur from being brushed against, moved, or from the activity of pets or children. These tears will look irregular and will not be associated with the discoloration of diseases or the chew marks of pests.

Low humidity can be problematic, causing new leaves to become dry and brittle as they unfurl. This can lead to the new growth sticking to itself, resulting in tears and splits as the leaf expands. Placing a plant too close to a heating vent or in a drafty area can also cause stress that weakens the leaves.

When a leaf is damaged, you have two options. If the damage is minor and affects less than half of the leaf, it can be left alone, as the undamaged portions can still perform photosynthesis. If the damage is extensive or you find the appearance unsightly, the leaf can be pruned off at the base of its stem using clean shears.