Beginner’s Guide to Pothos: The First Step Isn’t Just the Plant, It’s the Pot!

 Welcoming a new Pothos (also known as Devil’s Ivy) into your home is an exciting first step into the world of houseplants. They’re famous for being one of the easiest plants to care for, but even these resilient beauties can run into trouble. Often, the cause of a struggling Pothos isn’t your watering schedule—it’s the pot you chose. For beginners, understanding why the right pot is so crucial can set you up for long-term success.

Here’s a simple guide to choosing the perfect pot for your Pothos, designed with easy-to-follow advice that American plant lovers will appreciate.

The Golden Rule: Drainage is a Must

The number one mistake new plant parents make is using a pot without drainage holes. Pothos plants hate having “wet feet,” which means their roots should never sit in stagnant water.

• Why it matters: Drainage holes allow excess water to escape after you water your plant. Without them, water collects at the bottom of the pot, creating a breeding ground for root rot—the silent killer of houseplants.
• The solution: Always choose a pot with at least one good-sized hole at the bottom. If you have a beautiful decorative pot without drainage, you can still use it! Just place your Pothos in a slightly smaller plastic nursery pot with drainage holes, and then set that inside your decorative pot. After watering, simply empty any water that collects in the outer pot.

Pot Material: Porosity and Your Watering Style

The material of your pot affects how quickly the soil dries out. This should be a key consideration, especially if you’re still figuring out your watering habits.

• Terracotta (Clay) Pots: These are the beginner’s best friend, especially if you tend to overwater. Terracotta is a porous material, which means it absorbs moisture from the soil and allows it to evaporate through the pot’s walls. This helps the soil dry faster and gives the roots more airflow, drastically reducing the risk of root rot.
• Plastic Pots: Lightweight and affordable, plastic pots are great for retaining moisture. If you are an “under-waterer” or just want to water less often, a plastic pot might be a good choice. Just be extra careful not to overwater, as the moisture will stay in the soil much longer.
• Ceramic and Glazed Pots: These are often the most stylish, but they are less porous than terracotta. They retain moisture similarly to plastic pots. As long as they have a drainage hole, they can work well, but you’ll need to be mindful of your watering.

Guide to Pothos

Size Matters: Don’t Go Too Big!

It might seem logical to give your plant a lot of room to grow, but a pot that’s too large can be a recipe for disaster.

• The right fit: When you repot your Pothos, choose a new pot that is only about 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the old one. This gives the roots just enough space to expand without being overwhelmed.
• The risk of a large pot: A pot that is too big holds an excessive amount of soil and water. The plant’s roots won’t be able to absorb all that moisture, and the soil will stay wet for too long. Your plant will also focus its energy on filling the pot with roots instead of producing lush, beautiful leaves.

By paying attention to these simple details, you’re not just buying a pot—you’re investing in your Pothos’s health and your own success as a plant parent. The right pot is the foundation of a healthy, happy plant.