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Pothos do not like to dry out completely, but they do prefer their soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
If you’ve been wondering whether pothos like to dry out, the short answer is that they enjoy a brief period of dryness before a thorough soak.
This balance is key to keeping your pothos happy and healthy without risking root rot or dehydration.
When we say pothos like to dry out, we mean the top inch or two of soil should feel dry to the touch before you water again.
Pothos are resilient and forgive a little neglect, but letting them stay bone-dry for too long can stress them out.
In this post, we’ll explore why pothos like to dry out between waterings, how to tell when they need a drink, and what happens if they dry out too much.
Let’s dive in and get your pothos watering routine on point.
Why Pothos Like to Dry Out Between Waterings
Pothos like to dry out between waterings because their roots need oxygen as much as they need moisture.
When soil stays constantly wet, air pockets get filled with water and roots can’t breathe.
That’s why pothos like to dry out a bit before the next watering—it lets air return to the soil and keeps the root system healthy.
Here are the main reasons why pothos like to dry out in this specific way.
1. Preventing Root Rot
Pothos like to dry out because wet feet for too long lead to root rot.
Root rot is a fungal disease that thrives in soggy soil and suffocates the roots.
When pothos like to dry out, they’re actually signaling that their roots aren’t built to sit in water.
Allowing the soil to dry out between waterings gives the roots a chance to breathe and stay firm.
This is the number one reason why pothos like to dry out before the next drink.
2. Encouraging Strong Root Growth
Pothos like to dry out because the slight stress of a dry period encourages roots to search for moisture.
When the soil dries out, roots grow deeper and spread more to find water.
This makes the root system stronger and more resilient over time.
In contrast, constantly damp soil keeps roots shallow and lazy.
Pothos like to dry out just enough to stimulate that healthy root exploration.
3. Mimicking Their Natural Environment
In the wild, pothos grow as tropical epiphytes climbing up trees in rainforests.
Their roots aren’t always in constant moisture; they experience cycles of rain and dry spells.
That’s why pothos like to dry out—it matches the natural rhythm they evolved with.
When you water them this way, you’re giving them conditions that feel like home.
Pothos like to dry out because their native habitat taught them to handle it.
4. Avoiding Pest Problems
Pothos like to dry out because damp soil attracts fungus gnats and other pests.
Fungus gnats lay eggs in moist soil, and their larvae feed on organic matter and roots.
When pothos like to dry out between waterings, the top layer of soil becomes less inviting to these pests.
A dry surface breaks the gnat life cycle and keeps your plant pest-free.
Pothos like to dry out for this practical benefit as well.
How to Tell When Pothos Need Watering
Knowing exactly when pothos like to dry out is one thing, but how do you tell when it’s time to water?
Here are simple ways to check if your pothos has dried out enough.
1. The Finger Test
Stick your finger about an inch into the soil.
If it feels dry, your pothos is ready for water.
Pothos like to dry out at the top layer, so if the soil feels damp, wait a few more days.
This is the easiest and most reliable method for most houseplant owners.
2. Drooping Leaves
When pothos like to dry out but go too far, their leaves will start to droop slightly.
If you see the leaves looking a little soft or curling, that’s a sign the plant is getting thirsty.
Don’t wait until they’re crispy, but pothos like to dry out enough that a slight droop is normal before a drink.
Once you water, the leaves perk back up within a few hours.
3. Lifting the Pot
Pothos like to dry out, and dry soil is much lighter than wet soil.
Pick up the pot and feel the weight.
When it feels light, it’s time to water.
This is a great trick once you get used to how heavy a fully watered pot feels.
What Happens If Pothos Dry Out Too Much?
Even though pothos like to dry out between waterings, they can’t handle complete drought.
If you leave them dry for too long, you’ll start to see signs of stress.
1. Leaf Curling and Wilting
When pothos dry out too much, their leaves curl inward and wilt dramatically.
This is the plant’s way of conserving moisture.
While pothos like to dry out a little, prolonged wilting damages leaf cells and causes yellowing.
You might also see brown, crispy edges on the leaves.
2. Stunted Growth
Pothos like to dry out but not to the point where growth stops.
If the plant is constantly underwatered, new leaves will be small and slow to unfurl.
The vines may stop trailing altogether.
Consistent cycles of dry then wet keep the growth steady.
3. Root Damage
While pothos like to dry out slightly, bone-dry soil can kill fine root hairs.
These tiny roots are responsible for absorbing water and nutrients.
If they die off, the plant struggles to recover even after watering.
That’s why pothos like to dry out just to the point of slightly moist at the bottom of the pot.
Best Practices for Letting Pothos Dry Out
Now you know pothos like to dry out between waterings.
Here’s how to make that work in your care routine.
1. Use Well-Draining Soil
Pothos like to dry out faster when their soil drains well.
A mix of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark works great.
This prevents water from sitting too long and speeds up the drying process.
2. Choose the Right Pot
A pot with drainage holes is non-negotiable.
Pothos like to dry out, and a pot without drainage traps water at the bottom.
Terra cotta pots also wick moisture away, helping the soil dry faster.
3. Adjust for Season and Light
In winter, pothos like to dry out more slowly because growth slows.
Water less often.
In bright light, they dry out faster, so you may need to water more frequently.
Pothos like to dry out on their own schedule, so adjust based on your home’s conditions.
So, Do Pothos Like to Dry Out?
Pothos do not like to dry out completely, but they do prefer their soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
It’s that sweet spot of partial dryness that keeps them thriving without risking rot or dehydration.
Remember, pothos like to dry out for a reason—it mimics nature, prevents pests, and builds strong roots.
Use the finger test, watch for drooping leaves, and never let them sit in soggy soil.
If you follow these simple guidelines, your pothos will reward you with lush, trailing vines for years.
Happy growing!