How Often to Water Money Plant Indoors: Complete Guide

By Emma Thompson · December 26, 2025

Indoor money plants should be watered every 7–14 days, depending on light, temperature, and humidity. Overwatering is the leading cause of death for indoor Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), so always check soil moisture before watering.

Understanding Money Plant Watering Needs

The money plant, also known as Epipremnum aureum or Pothos, is a popular indoor houseplant due to its hardiness and attractive trailing vines. However, one of the most common mistakes in caring for this plant is improper watering. While it's drought-tolerant, consistent overwatering leads to root rot and yellowing leaves.

Money plants thrive in well-draining soil and prefer their top 1–2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. The frequency depends on several environmental factors:

Light exposure (bright indirect light increases water use)
Room temperature (warmer = faster evaporation)
Air humidity (low humidity dries soil quicker)
Pot size and material (clay dries faster than plastic)
Seasonal changes (less water needed in winter)

Signs Your Money Plant Needs Water

Visual and Physical Cues

Before reaching for the watering can, observe your plant for these reliable indicators:

Drooping or wilting leaves: A clear signal of underwatering.
Yellowing leaves: Often mistaken for thirst, but usually indicates overwatering.
Dry soil surface: Check the top 1–2 inches with your finger.
Lightweight pot: Lift the pot; dry soil makes it noticeably lighter.
Crispy leaf edges: Suggest prolonged dryness.

How to Water a Money Plant Properly

Step-by-Step Watering Method

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger up to the second knuckle.
If soil feels dry, water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom.
Allow excess water to drain completely—never let the plant sit in water.
Wait until the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out before watering again.
Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.

Watering Frequency by Season and Environment

Adapting your watering schedule throughout the year ensures optimal health. Below is a detailed breakdown based on real-world observations and horticultural guidelines.

Season	Light Level	Temperature (°F)	Watering Frequency	Soil Dry-Down Time
Spring	Bright Indirect	68–75	Every 7–10 days	5–7 days
Summer	Bright Indirect	75–85	Every 7–9 days	4–6 days
Fall	Medium Indirect	65–72	Every 10–14 days	7–10 days
Winter	Low to Medium	60–68	Every 14–21 days	10–14 days
Any Season	Low Light	Any	Every 14–28 days	14+ days

Table data source:1, 2

Data shows that money plants in bright indirect light during summer require watering nearly twice as often as those in low light during winter. Temperature and light are the strongest predictors of soil drying rates. Adjust your schedule accordingly to prevent root rot in cooler months.

Common Watering Mistakes to Avoid

Overwatering: The #1 killer of indoor money plants. Leads to root rot and fungal issues.
Using cold water: Can shock tropical roots. Always use room-temperature water.
Ignoring drainage: Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Sticking to a strict schedule: Let soil moisture guide you, not the calendar.
Bottom watering exclusively: While useful, it can lead to salt buildup. Occasionally water from the top.

FAQ About Indoor Money Plant Watering

How do I know if my money plant is overwatered?

Signs include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, dark brown or black roots, and a foul smell from the soil. If caught early, trim affected roots and repot in dry, fresh soil.

Can I use tap water for my money plant?

Yes, but let tap water sit for 24 hours to allow chlorine to evaporate. Fluoride and chloramine may still affect sensitive plants, so consider using filtered or rainwater if you notice leaf tip burn.

Should I mist my money plant?

Misting is not necessary for watering but can increase humidity. Money plants tolerate average home humidity but grow better in 50–60%. Group plants or use a humidifier for best results.

What happens if I forget to water my money plant?

Money plants are resilient and can recover from short dry spells. Drooping leaves will perk up within hours after watering. Just avoid making this a long-term habit.

Is bottom watering good for money plants?

Bottom watering ensures even moisture and prevents overwatering. Let the plant soak for 10–15 minutes, then remove from water. Use this method occasionally, but not exclusively, to flush salts from the soil.