Can Pothos Survive Winter? Safety Tips to Know

Last Updated on November 29, 2023

As winter approaches, plant enthusiasts often find themselves wondering, “Can Pothos survive the winter?” Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), known for its resilience and adaptability, is a popular choice for indoor greenery. However, the winter season poses unique challenges that require careful consideration and adjustment in care routines.

To ensure the well-being of your Pothos plants during winter, it’s essential to shield them from cold and harsh weather conditions. Pothos thrives in moderately warm temperatures, typically ranging between 70-90°F (21-32°C).

To provide the ideal environment, consider keeping your Pothos indoors or in a climate-controlled greenhouse where they can enjoy indirect light and receive occasional watering. This approach will help your Pothos not only survive but flourish in the winter months.

Factors Influencing Pothos Survival in Winter

For better survival of the Pothos plant in winter, I’ve divided this section into two parts to help you understand it in a better way.

A. Temperature Sensitivity

• Ideal Temperature Range for Pothos: Pothos plants thrive within a specific temperature range. Ideally, keep the environment around your Pothos between 70-90°F (21-32°C). This ensures a comfortable and supportive atmosphere for their growth. It’s crucial to avoid extremes in temperature, as Pothos may struggle in excessively hot or cold conditions.
• Cold Tolerance Limits: Pothos has limits to its tolerance for cold temperatures. When the mercury drops, it’s essential to shield your plant from chilly drafts and extremely low temperatures. Aim to keep your Pothos in a place where it won’t be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) for extended periods. This precaution helps prevent stress and potential damage during winter.

B. Light Requirements During Winter

Pothos plants have moderate light requirements, even during the winter months when daylight hours may be shorter. To ensure their well-being:

• Indirect Light: Position your Pothos where it receives indirect sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, especially if it’s streaming in through a window, as this can lead to leaf burn.
• Supplemental Lighting: In areas with limited natural light, consider using artificial lighting sources, such as fluorescent or LED lights. This helps compensate for the reduced sunlight during winter and promotes healthy growth.

C. Humidity Considerations

Pothos plants generally adapt well to average household humidity levels, but certain considerations can enhance their winter survival:

• Avoid Dry Air: Winter heating systems can lead to dry indoor air. To counteract this, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your Pothos to maintain adequate humidity levels.
• Grouping Plants: Placing multiple plants together can create a microenvironment with slightly higher humidity. This is especially helpful if you have several houseplants sharing the same space.

Winterizing Pothos for Long-Term Health

Here’s what you need to do:

Pre-Winter Preparations:

Preparing your Pothos for winter involves taking proactive steps to mitigate potential stress and challenges. Here’s how you can set the stage for a healthy winter:

1. Inspect for Pests and Diseases:
   Before winter sets in, carefully inspect your Pothos for any signs of pests or diseases. Treat any issues promptly to ensure your plant goes into winter in optimal condition.
2. Pruning and Trimming:
   Trim any leggy or damaged growth from your Pothos before winter. This not only enhances its appearance but also promotes better air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal issues.
3. Check and Adjust Lighting:
   Assess the available natural light and consider adjusting your Pothos’s placement accordingly. Ensure it continues to receive adequate, indirect light during the shorter days of winter.
4. Evaluate Soil Moisture:
   Check the soil moisture levels and adjust your watering routine. It’s essential to enter winter with soil that is neither too dry nor waterlogged. Adjust the watering frequency based on the specific needs of your Pothos.

B. Setting Up a Routine for Ongoing Care:

Establishing a consistent care routine throughout the winter is key to ensuring the long-term health of your Pothos. Follow these guidelines for ongoing care:

1. Watering Schedule:
   During winter, the frequency of watering may change. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering, and be mindful not to overwater, as reduced light levels can slow down the plant’s water uptake.
2. Temperature Management:
   Maintain a stable indoor temperature within the ideal range of 70-90°F (21-32°C). Avoid placing your Pothos near drafts, windows, or heat sources that can lead to temperature extremes.
3. Humidity Maintenance:
   Continue to monitor indoor humidity levels. If the air becomes too dry due to heating systems, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant.
4. Fertilization Adjustments:
   During winter, Pothos generally experience slower growth. Adjust your fertilization schedule accordingly, providing a diluted, balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks rather than more frequent applications.

By implementing these pre-winter preparations and setting up a thoughtful routine for ongoing care, you’ll create a conducive environment for your Pothos to thrive throughout the winter months, setting the stage for its long-term health and vitality.

FAQs

Can You Leave Pothos Outside in Winter?

No, you cannot leave pothos outside in winter. Pothos is a tropical plant and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures. If the temperature dips below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the leaves will start to turn brown and die.

Do Pothos Come Back Every Year?

No, pothos do not come back every year. They are an annual plant, meaning they complete their life cycle in one year and then die.

Does Pothos lose leaves in winter?

Yes, it’s common for Pothos plants to experience some leaf loss during the winter months. This is a natural response to the lower light levels and cooler temperatures that often occur during this season.

Pothos is a resilient plant, and while some leaf shedding is normal, it’s essential to differentiate between natural leaf drop and issues like overwatering, underwatering, or pest infestation.

How do you know if Pothos is too cold (signs)?

Signs of Pothos being too cold include yellowing leaves, leaf drop, wilting, and stunted growth. To address this, bring it indoors during cold spells and provide protection from frost. Keep an eye on these signs and act promptly to safeguard your Pothos from cold stress.

How cold can Pothos tolerate?

The cold tolerance of Pothos is limited, and it may start to experience damage if exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) for an extended period. Frost or freezing temperatures can be particularly harmful, causing damage to the leaves and overall health of the plant.

Conclusion

As you navigate the winter care journey with your Pothos, remember that this resilient plant has the capacity to bring joy and greenery into your space year-round. With thoughtful attention and a bit of care, your Pothos can not only survive but thrive in the winter months.

Cut back on watering- allow the soil to dry out more between watering. Protect from drafts- keep your plants away from windows or doors where cold air may be coming in. Bring outdoors plants inside- if you have potted plants outside, bring them inside before the first frost.

These tips should help your pothos survive the winter!