Why Your Pothos Plant Water Is Growing Sideways

If you have a pothos plant, you may have noticed that the water you pour into its pot seems to be growing sideways instead of being absorbed by the soil. This can be quite perplexing and frustrating, especially if you are trying to keep your plant healthy and thriving. In this article, we will explore the reasons why your pothos plant water is growing sideways and discuss possible solutions to this issue.

1. Overwatering

One of the most common reasons for water to pool on the surface of the soil instead of being absorbed is overwatering. Pothos plants prefer slightly damp soil rather than being constantly soaked. When you pour too much water into the pot, it takes longer for the excess moisture to evaporate or be absorbed by the roots, leading to sideways growth.

To fix this issue, make sure you are not watering your pothos plant too frequently. Allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions, and always check the moisture level before adding more water. Additionally, consider using a well-draining potting mix that allows excess water to escape easily.

2. Poor Drainage

Another reason why your pothos plant water may be growing sideways is poor drainage in the pot. If the pot does not have sufficient drainage holes or if they are blocked, water will accumulate at the bottom instead of being absorbed by the roots.

To improve drainage, ensure that your pothos plant is in a pot with several drainage holes at the bottom. You can also add a layer of gravel or small stones at the bottom of the pot before adding soil. This will create a space for excess water to collect and prevent it from saturating the roots.

3. Root Bound

Pothos plants are known for their vigorous growth and ability to fill up a pot quickly. If your plant has been in the same pot for an extended period, it may have become root bound. This means that the roots have grown and intertwined to the point where they are constricting each other, making it difficult for water to penetrate through the soil.

To address this issue, carefully remove the pothos plant from its pot and examine the roots. If they are tightly packed or circling around the edges of the pot, it is time to repot your plant into a larger container. Gently untangle the roots and trim any excessively long ones before replanting in fresh soil. This will give your plant more room to grow and allow water to penetrate evenly through the soil.

4. Improper Watering Technique

Believe it or not, your watering technique can also contribute to water growing sideways in your pothos plant. Pouring water directly onto the leaves or stem can cause it to run down the sides of the pot instead of being absorbed by the soil. This can lead to uneven watering and sideways growth.

To avoid this problem, always water your pothos plant at the base, near the soil surface. Use a watering can with a narrow spout or a small watering bottle to direct the water precisely where it is needed. This way, you ensure that the water reaches the roots and is absorbed by the soil rather than running off to the sides.

5. Temperature and Humidity

Lastly, temperature and humidity levels can affect how water is absorbed by your pothos plant. If the temperature is too cool or if humidity levels are low, it can slow down the evaporation process, causing excess water to pool on the surface instead of being absorbed.

To create an ideal environment for your pothos plant, ensure that it is kept in a room with temperatures between 60-80°F (15-26°C) and relative humidity levels around 40-60%. You can also place a tray of water near the plant to increase humidity levels or use a humidifier if necessary.

In conclusion, if you notice that your pothos plant water is growing sideways instead of being absorbed by the soil, there are several potential reasons for this issue. Overwatering, poor drainage, root bound conditions, improper watering technique, and temperature/humidity levels can all contribute to sideways growth. By addressing these factors and making appropriate adjustments, you can ensure that your pothos plant receives adequate water and thrives in its pot. Remember to provide proper care and attention to your pothos plant, and it will reward you with its beautiful foliage and trailing vines.