Pothos Yellow Leaves: Causes & Quick Fixes

By Marcus Williams · September 26, 2026

Why Are My Pothos Leaves Turning Yellow?

Yellow leaves on pothos (Epipremnum aureum) are one of the most common houseplant concerns. The good news: most causes are easy to fix once you identify the right one.

Cause 1: Overwatering (Most Common)

Symptoms: Lower leaves yellow first, soil stays wet for days, possible mushy stems.

Fix: Let the top 2 inches of soil dry completely between waterings. Check that your pot has drainage holes. If the soil smells rotten, repot in fresh, well-draining mix.

Cause 2: Too Much Direct Sunlight

Symptoms: Leaves bleach yellow or white, especially on the side facing the window.

Fix: Move the plant to bright, indirect light. Pothos tolerates low light but thrives in filtered light. East-facing windows are ideal.

Cause 3: Nutrient Deficiency

Symptoms: Overall pale yellow-green color, slow growth, small new leaves.

Fix: Feed with balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) monthly during spring and summer. Reduce to every 2 months in fall and winter.

Cause 4: Natural Aging

Symptoms: Only the oldest (lowest) leaves yellow and drop, while new growth is healthy green.

Fix: Nothing needed. This is normal. Remove yellowed leaves to keep the plant tidy.

Cause 5: Root Bound

Symptoms: Roots circling the pot bottom, water runs straight through, stunted growth.

Fix: Repot into a container 1-2 inches larger with fresh potting mix. Spring is the best time.

Quick Diagnosis Chart

Yellow + wet soil = overwatering
Yellow + dry crispy edges = underwatering
Yellow + bright window = sunburn
Yellow + slow growth = needs fertilizer
Yellow + only old leaves = natural aging