Are you the proud owner of a pothos plant, or perhaps considering adding one to your indoor jungle? Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Pothos plants are a popular choice for indoor gardens due to their low-maintenance nature and stunning foliage. But, like any plant, they have their preferences when it comes to temperature.
So, let’s embark on a tropical adventure to unveil the secrets of pothos temperature tolerance and learn how to keep your plant thriving in various conditions!
Key Takeaways
Pothos plants need a tropical paradise with temps of 70-90°F and humidity levels around 50-70%.
Different varieties have varying temperature tolerances, so watch out for curled leaves!
Protect your pothos from extreme temperatures & give it the TLC it needs, no two plants are alike!
Ideal Temperature Range for Pothos Plants
Being a tropical plant, pothos relish warm and humid conditions. They grow optimally in temperatures ranging from 70-90°F (21-32°C). However, they can be quite forgiving and can tolerate temperatures as low as 60°F (15°C) for short periods. But beware, prolonged exposure to low temperatures can stunt their growth and sap their vitality.
Golden pothos plants love it when things get steamy, usually in the 50-70% humidity range. Yet, indoor environments with air conditioning and central heating can adversely affect humidity levels, negatively impacting the golden pothos plant. So, if the room temperature is in the ideal range but your plant still seems unhappy, don’t worry! It’s probably not the freezing temperatures that’s making your plant feel under the weather.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Temperature Needs
During winter, indoor environments, particularly obscure corners and poorly ventilated areas like basements, can become excessively cold for pothos plants. These tropical plants might suffer from temperature fluctuations, hence monitoring indoor temperatures and making necessary adaptations is advisable for keeping plants indoors. Pothos can also be grown outdoors, but they’re limited to USDA hardiness zones 10-12 in the US, where temperatures remain consistently warm.
If you’re growing your devil’s ivy (pothos) outdoors, be aware that most of the United States is too chilly for them to survive outside during the winter. If the temperature drops below 70°F (21°C), it’s time to bring your pothos indoors to avoid root rot. Fertilizing your pothos plants in autumn can give them that extra boost they need to face the colder months. A slow-release fertilizer is the way to go for pothos plants.
Remember, fertilizing neon pothos plants in winter is not recommended.
Temperature Tolerance in Different Pothos Varieties
All pothos varieties favor warm temperatures, yet they might exhibit slight differences in temperature endurance. This means that some varieties might be a bit more resilient to temperature fluctuations, while others might be more sensitive. Nevertheless, all pothos varieties prefer to chill in moderate to warm temperatures for optimal growth.
Bear in mind that pothos plants cannot withstand freezing temperatures and should be protected from cold drafts and abrupt temperature changes. A curled leaf on your pothos plant may indicate that it’s feeling a bit too toasty. Keep an eye on your plant’s leaves to identify any temperature stress symptoms and make necessary adjustments.
Signs of Temperature Stress in Pothos
Pothos plants, particularly the marble queen pothos, under temperature stress exhibit several symptoms including:
Drooping, blackened, or curling leaves
Dry leaf edges
Sunscald
Leaf discoloration, such as brown patches in the middle of the leaf These symptoms can also be observed in stock plants under similar conditions.
Chilly breezes and unexpected temperature changes can cause your pothos to panic and shed some leaves. These symptoms are a sign that your plant is feeling a bit chilly.
On the other hand, if you find the leaves of your plants curling up, it is usually a sign that the temperature is higher than what is suitable for it. High temperatures can damage the health of a plant. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to reassess your pothos care routine and make adjustments to help your plant regain its strength and lushness.
Cold Temperature Effects
When exposed to cold temperatures, pothos plants may show signs of distress, such as limpness, leaves curling downwards, and potential frostbite damage. Frostbite damage often appears as blackened leaves. Interestingly, neon pothos plants can survive even the chilliest of winters, with the leaves closest to the window taking the brunt of the cold damage.
Pothos plants, known for their pothos cold tolerance, can endure temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) without severe distress, showcasing their ability to pothos survive. Nevertheless, it remains important to regulate the pothos temperature and adapt the plant’s care to fend off any lasting damage.
High Temperature Effects
On the flip side, high temperatures can cause pothos plants to exhibit the following signs of stress:
Curling leaves: This is a sign that your pothos is losing water faster than it can absorb it, which can lead to dehydration and potential sunscald on leaves.
Sunscald: This often appears as white patches or yellowish discoloration on the tops of the leaves.
Wilting: The leaves may appear limp and droopy.
Browning: The edges or tips of the leaves may turn brown.
If you notice these signs, it’s important to take steps to protect your pothos from excessive heat and provide it with proper care to prevent further damage.
Pothos plants can get a bit too toasty at temperatures above 90°F, so it’s essential to watch out for sunscald and adjust your plant’s care accordingly. Providing shade or indirect sunlight during the hottest parts of the day can help prevent damage to your pothos.
Adjusting Pothos Care Based on Temperature
To ensure the thriving growth of your pothos plants, adapt their care according to the surrounding temperature. This may involve monitoring and adjusting watering schedules, as well as ensuring proper light and placement. By paying close attention to your plant’s needs and making necessary adjustments, you can create an ideal environment for your pothos to flourish.
Keep in mind that proper pothos care isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Each plant is unique and may require different care adjustments depending on its specific needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect balance for your pothos plant to thrive.
Watering
Watering schedules for pothos plants should be adjusted based on temperature. In colder temperatures, it’s important to reduce watering frequency to prevent overwatering and root rot. Use the “finger trick” to check the soil moisture level a couple of times a week and water when the soil feels dry to the touch. During winter, you might need to water your pothos only once every two weeks, depending on the temperature and season.
Conversely, in warmer temperatures, pothos plants may need more frequent watering to prevent dehydration and temperature stress. In temperatures higher than 75°F, watering may be required up to once a day to keep your pothos plant happy and hydrated. Remember to always wait until the soil feels dry before watering to avoid overwatering.
Light and Placement
Proper light and placement for your pothos plant can help it thrive in various temperature conditions. Here are some tips:
During winter, relocate your pothos to a brighter spot, possibly near a luminous window, to maintain its health.
Keep it around 3 feet away from the window to avoid any temperature surprises.
Bright, indirect light helps the soil dry out between waterings, preventing overwatering and root rot.
In the summer, providing shade or indirect sunlight can help prevent sunscald and high-temperature stress on your pothos plant. Keep an eye on the temperature and adjust your plant’s care accordingly. By avoiding direct sunlight and adjusting light and placement throughout the year, you can create an optimal environment for your pothos plant to grow and thrive.
Protecting Pothos from Extreme Temperatures
Guarding your pothos plants against extreme temperatures is key to their health and well-being. Whether it’s the cold winter months or the sweltering summer heat, proper care adjustments can help keep your pothos plant thriving in any environment.
By following the winter and summer care tips discussed earlier and keeping an eye on your plant for any signs of temperature stress, you can ensure that your pothos plant stays happy, healthy, and vibrant throughout the year. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to protecting your pothos from extreme temperatures.
Winter Care Tips
During winter, it is significant to alter your pothos care routine to shield it from cold temperatures. Reducing watering frequency is one way to help your plant cope with the colder environment. Additionally, moving your plant to a bright location, such as near a window, can help maintain its health during the cold months.
Steering clear of cold drafts and abrupt temperature changes is also vital to ward off temperature stress in your pothos plant. By following these winter care tips, you can ensure that your pothos plant stays healthy and vibrant throughout the colder months.
Summer Care Tips
Summer care for your pothos plant involves providing shade or indirect sunlight, monitoring humidity levels, and adjusting watering schedules as needed. Keeping your plant in indirect sunlight during the hottest parts of the day can help prevent sunscald and high-temperature stress.
In summer, you should inspect the soil’s moisture content twice a week and water your pothos plant when the soil appears dry. By following these summer care tips, you can help your pothos plant thrive and continue to grow in the warmer months.
Reviving Pothos Plants Affected by Temperature Stress
If your pothos plant exhibits signs of temperature stress, identifying the stressors and modifying its care becomes necessary. This may involve moving the plant to a warmer or cooler location, adjusting its watering schedule, or pruning damaged leaves or stems.
Remember, the revival of a stressed pothos plant might be time-consuming, requiring your patience during the plant’s recovery period. By providing consistent and appropriate care, your pothos plant can bounce back from temperature stress and regain its former lushness and beauty.
Summary
In conclusion, understanding and mastering pothos temperature tolerance is essential for maintaining the health and beauty of your pothos plants. By learning the ideal temperature range for pothos plants, recognizing signs of temperature stress, and adjusting care based on temperature, you can keep your plant thriving in various conditions.
Remember that each pothos variety may have slightly varying temperature tolerances, but all prefer moderate to warm temperatures for optimal growth. By following proper winter and summer care tips and monitoring your plant’s condition, you can ensure that your pothos plant stays vibrant and healthy throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold is too cold for Pothos?
For Pothos, 65°F is the limit; colder than that and you may start to see some distress in the plant!
Can Pothos go outside in summer?
Yes, Pothos can go outside during the summer in most regions as long as temperatures don’t drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. With a bit of protection during cold nights, it can thrive outdoors year-round in subtropical regions. So why not bring the beauty of a pothos basket to your summer patio?
Will Pothos come back after freeze?
Pothos can freeze back in hard winters but will bounce back with enthusiasm in the spring! Plant it in early spring for best results.
Is 40 degrees too cold for house plants?
At 40° F, it may be a bit chilly for house plants – so if you’re looking to keep them healthy and happy, it’s best to aim for a warmer climate!
How can I tell if my pothos plant is experiencing temperature stress?
If you’re seeing droopy leaves, blackened leaves, dry leaf edges, curling leaves, or sunscald on your pothos plant, it’s likely experiencing temperature stress!
