Can Pothos Grow Outside In Winter

Pothos can grow outside in winter but only in very specific conditions.
 
If you live in a warm climate with no frost, you may have success with pothos growing outside in winter.
 
But for most gardeners, the short answer is that pothos cannot grow outside in winter safely without protection.
 
This tropical houseplant thrives in warm, humid environments and struggles when temperatures drop below 50°F.
 
Understanding the limits of pothos in winter is key to keeping your plant alive and healthy.
 
In this post, we’ll break down exactly when pothos can grow outside in winter and how to help them survive.
 

Can Pothos Grow Outside in Winter? Understanding the Basics

Pothos can grow outside in winter only if outdoor conditions mimic their native tropical environment.
 
Let’s look at the core factors that determine whether pothos can survive winter outdoors.
 

1. Pothos Are Naturally Tropical

Pothos originate from warm, humid regions in Southeast Asia and the South Pacific.
 
These plants expect consistent temperatures above 60°F year-round.
 
When you try to grow pothos outside in winter, any exposure to cold below 50°F causes leaf damage and slowed growth.
 
Pothos can grow outside in winter only if temperatures stay reliably above that threshold.
 

2. Frost Is a Clear Deal-Breaker

Frost is deadly for pothos plants, no exceptions.
 
If your area sees frost even occasionally, pothos cannot grow outside in winter without immediate harm.
 
Frost crystallizes water inside the leaves, causing black, mushy tissue that won’t recover.
 
So unless you live where frost never happens, assume pothos growing outside in winter is risky.
 

3. Hardiness Zones Tell the Story

The USDA hardiness zones where pothos can thrive outdoors are zones 10, 11, and 12.
 
In these zones, winter lows stay above 30°F, and pothos can grow outside in winter with little worry.
 
In zones 9 and below, winter temperatures often drop into the 20s or colder.
 
That means pothos cannot survive outdoors in those zones unless you provide heavy protection or bring them inside.
 

How Temperature Affects Pothos Growing Outside in Winter

Temperature is the single most important factor when asking if pothos can grow outside in winter.
 
Let’s explore what happens at different temperature ranges.
 

1. Above 60°F – Ideal for Growth

In temperatures above 60°F, pothos will continue growing normally even outdoors in winter.
 
This is why gardeners in Florida, Hawaii, or similar climates say pothos can grow outside in winter beautifully.
 
The plant keeps producing new leaves and vines just as it would indoors.
 

2. Between 50°F and 60°F – Survival Mode

Between 50°F and 60°F, pothos stop active growth but usually survive.
 
They may look a bit droopy or stop putting out new leaves.
 
Pothos can grow outside in winter at these temperatures, but don’t expect lush development.
 
This is a gray area where careful monitoring is essential.
 

3. Below 50°F – Danger Zone

Once temperatures drop below 50°F, pothos begin to suffer cold stress.
 
Leaves may turn yellow, curl, or develop brown edges.
 
If the temperature hits 40°F or lower, pothos cannot grow outside in winter without serious damage.
 
Pothos can die quickly if exposed to prolonged cold below this threshold.
 

Tips to Help Pothos Survive Winter Outdoors

If you’re determined to let pothos grow outside in winter, these strategies can improve their chances.
 

1. Choose a Sheltered Microclimate

Place pothos near a south-facing wall or under a dense tree canopy.
 
These spots absorb heat during the day and release it at night.
 
Even in cooler zones, pothos growing outside in winter can benefit from this extra warmth.
 
Avoid open, windy areas that amplify cold stress.
 

2. Use Frost Cloth or Blankets

When frost is forecast, cover pothos with frost cloth, old bedsheets, or burlap.
 
This traps heat from the ground and prevents ice from forming on leaves.
 
For pothos to grow outside in winter in borderline zones, covers are a must on cold nights.
 
Make sure the cover doesn’t touch the foliage directly to avoid transferring cold.
 

3. Mulch Heavily Around the Roots

A thick layer of mulch, 3 to 4 inches deep, insulates the soil and roots.
 
Use straw, shredded bark, or dry leaves.
 
This helps pothos grow outside in winter by keeping the root zone slightly warmer.
 
Mulch also prevents the soil from freezing quickly.
 

4. Water Less in Cool Weather

Overwatering pothos in winter can lead to root rot because the plant uses less moisture.
 
But don’t let the soil go bone dry either.
 
Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
 
Proper moisture helps pothos growing outside in winter handle cold stress better.
 

5. Bring Pothos Indoors During Cold Snaps

If a severe cold spell hits, the safest option is to bring potted pothos inside.
 
Pothos can grow outside in winter only if the weather stays consistently mild.
 
Use containers with drainage so you can move them easily.
 
For ground-planted pothos, you can’t move them, so rely on covers and mulch.
 

So, Can Pothos Grow Outside in Winter?

Pothos can grow outside in winter, but only in frost-free climates with temperatures above 50°F consistently.
 
If you live in USDA zones 10-12, you can likely leave pothos outdoors all winter with minimal fuss.
 
For gardeners in cooler zones, pothos cannot grow outside in winter without protection or until you bring them inside.
 
Use the tips above to push the limits if you want to try pothos growing outside in winter.
 
But remember, pothos are tropical plants, and their health depends on staying warm.
 
When in doubt, it’s always safer to enjoy pothos as an indoor plant during cold months.