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How to Save a Dying Exotica Pothos Plant

Updated: January 14, 2023

Exotica pothos plants are tropical plants that are commonly grown indoors. They are easy to care for and can thrive in most environments. However, sometimes even the best care can’t prevent a plant from dying. If your exotica pothos plant is dying, there are a few things you can do to try and save it.

Identify the Problem

The first step in saving a dying exotica pothos plant is to identify the problem. There are several things that can cause a pothos plant to start dying, including:

  • Overwatering
  • Underwatering
  • Lack of nutrients
  • Too much direct sunlight
  • Pests or diseases

Once you have identified the problem, you can take steps to fix it and save your plant.

Fixing the Problem

Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common problems that can cause a pothos plant to start dying. If you think this may be the problem with your plant, here’s what you can do:

  • Stop watering your plant immediately.
  • Check the soil for moisture. If it’s wet, let it dry out completely before watering again.
  • Make sure your pot has proper drainage so excess water can drain away.
  • Consider repotting your plant in fresh, well-draining soil.

Underwatering

If your plant is not getting enough water, its leaves will start to wilt and turn yellow. To fix this problem:

  • Water your plant thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot.
  • Make sure you are watering your plant regularly, but not overwatering.
  • Consider misting your plant or placing it on a tray with pebbles and water to increase humidity.

Lack of Nutrients

If your plant is not getting enough nutrients, its leaves may start to turn yellow or brown. To fix this problem:

  • Consider fertilizing your plant with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Make sure your plant is getting enough sunlight. Pothos plants need bright, indirect light to grow properly.
  • Consider repotting your plant in fresh soil if it has been in the same pot for a long time.

Too Much Direct Sunlight

Exotica pothos plants need bright, indirect light to grow properly. If your plant is getting too much direct sunlight, its leaves may start to brown or scorch. To fix this problem:

  • Move your plant to a location with more shade or indirect light.
  • Consider using a sheer curtain to filter the sunlight.
  • If you can’t move your plant, rotate it regularly so all sides get equal amounts of light.

Pests or Diseases

If your plant is suffering from pests or diseases, you will need to take immediate action to save it. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

  • Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause webbing on your plant and cause leaves to turn yellow. Spray your plant with a mixture of water and dish soap to get rid of them.
  • Mealybugs: These pests look like small cotton balls on leaves and stems. Wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
  • Root rot: This is caused by overwatering and can cause the roots to rot and turn brown. Remove any affected roots and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.

FAQ

How often should I water my exotica pothos plant?

Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Do not overwater as this can cause root rot.

Can I place my exotica pothos plant in direct sunlight?

No, pothos plants prefer bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch.

How often should I fertilize my exotica pothos plant?

Fertilize your plant every 2-3 months with a balanced fertilizer.

How do I know if my exotica pothos plant is getting enough humidity?

If the leaves start to wilt or turn brown, your plant may not be getting enough humidity. Consider misting your plant or placing it on a tray with pebbles and water to increase humidity.

Can I propagate my exotica pothos plant?

Yes, pothos plants are easy to propagate. Simply cut a stem below a node and place it in water until roots form, then plant in soil.