Pothos Leaves Turning Black: Causes, Fixes, and Prevention

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), also called Devil’s Ivy, is one of the easiest houseplants to grow. It is loved for its fast growth, trailing vines, and heart-shaped green and golden leaves. However, plant owners often become concerned when they notice pothos leaves turning black or developing black spots.

If you are asking, “Why are my pothos leaves turning black?” — don’t worry. In most cases, it’s not the end for your plant. Black leaves are typically a sign that something is amiss in the environment or care routine.

This guide will explain the reasons for black pothos leaves, how to address them, and how to prevent the issue in the future.

What Does It Mean When Pothos Leaves Turn Black?

• Entire Leaf Turning Black: Often caused by overwatering, root rot, or cold damage.

• Black Spots or Dots on Leaves: Usually linked to fungal or bacterial infections, pests, or sunburn.

• Black Tips or Edges: Commonly from underwatering, dry air, or fertilizer burn.

Simply put, black leaves = stress signal. The plant is trying to tell you something is wrong.

Top Reasons Why Pothos Leaves Turn Black

1. Overwatering & Root Rot

The #1 cause of pothos plant leaves turning black is too much water.

• Pothos prefers soil that dries slightly between waterings.

• If roots stay soggy, they suffocate and rot. Rotting roots can no longer send water and nutrients, so leaves start turning black and mushy.

Signs of Overwatering / Root Rot:

• Black, soft, or mushy leaves.

• Soil stays wet for more than 5–7 days.

• Bad smell from the soil.

• Roots look brown and slimy instead of white and firm.

Factual Data:

• Pothos should be watered about every 7–10 days in summer and 10–14 days in winter, depending on indoor humidity and temperature.

Fix:

• Take the plant out of the pot and check the roots.

• Trim rotten roots with sterilized scissors.

• Repot in fresh, well-draining soil (60% potting mix + 30% perlite + 10% coco coir).

• Always use a pot with drainage holes.

2. Underwatering & Dry Soil

On the other hand, too little water causes the pothos leaves to become dry and crispy. The edges and tips turn brown first, then black.

Signs of Underwatering:

• Leaves curl inwards.

• Soil feels bone dry.

• Crispy black tips or edges.

Factual Data:

• Pothos can survive short droughts, but leaves start drying out if the soil stays dry for more than 2 weeks.

Fix:

• Water the plant deeply until water drains out of the bottom.

• Keep a watering schedule: when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry, it’s time to water.

• Use a moisture meter to avoid guesswork.

3. Lighting Problems

Pothos are low-light tolerant but still need bright, indirect light.

• Too much direct sunlight burns leaves, causing black or brown patches.

• Too little light weakens the plant, making leaves dull and sometimes black.

Light Requirement:

• 10,000–20,000 lux is ideal (bright, indirect light).

• Avoid more than 2 hours of harsh direct sunlight daily.

Fix:

• Place pothos near an east or north-facing window.

• Use sheer curtains to filter sunlight.

• If indoors is dark, use a grow light (6500K, 12–14 hours/day).

4. Temperature & Humidity Stress

Pothos are tropical plants. They don’t like extreme conditions.

• Cold damage (below 50°F / 10°C) can cause leaves to turn black.

• Dry air (humidity < 30%) results in crispy, black tips.

Ideal Environment for Pothos:

• Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C).

• Humidity: 40–60% (mimics tropical habitat).

Fix:

• Keep pothos away from heaters, AC vents, and cold drafts.

• Mist leaves occasionally or use a humidifier.

• Place the plant on a pebble tray with water to increase humidity.

5. Fertilizer Burn

Too much fertilizer = black leaf edges. This occurs due to salt accumulation in the soil.

Signs of Fertilizer Burn:

• Yellowing + black edges.

• White crust on the soil surface.

Fertilizer Fact:

• Pothos only needs fertilizer once a month in spring and summer (use a balanced 20-20-20 or 10-10-10 diluted to half strength).

• Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Fix:

• Flush soil with clean water to wash out excess salts.

• Repot if the soil looks too salty.

6. Pests and Diseases

Pothos can suffer from pests and fungal/bacterial infections.

Pests That Cause Black Spots:

• Spider mites: tiny black/brown specks, webbing under leaves.

• Thrips: silver streaks + black dots (excrement).

• Scale insects / Mealybugs: sticky residue + black mold.

Diseases That Cause Black Leaves:

• Bacterial leaf spot: tiny black dots with a yellow halo.

• Fungal infections: larger black patches that spread quickly.

Fix:

• Isolate the infected plant.

• Wipe leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Remove heavily infected leaves.

• Improve air circulation.

7. Natural Aging of Leaves

Sometimes, leaves turn black because they are old. A pothos leaf lives about 1–2 years. After that, it naturally yellows, browns, and then turns black before dropping off.

If only 1–2 old leaves at the bottom turn black, it’s normal aging — nothing to worry about.

Golden Pothos Leaves Turning Black

Golden pothos (variegated with yellow streaks) is slightly more sensitive:

• In low light, the yellow variegation fades, and leaves may darken or blacken.

• Overwatering shows up faster in golden pothos.

Care Tip: Give golden pothos brighter indirect light (at least 12 hours/day) to maintain color and avoid blackening.

 How to Identify Black Spots on Pothos Leaves

Quick Diagnosis Checklist – Why Is My Pothos Turning Black?

• Black mushy leaves → Overwatering/root rot

• Black crispy tips → Underwatering / dry air

• Black patches on sun-facing side → Sunburn

• Tiny black spots → Bacterial/fungal issue

• Old leaves blackening → Normal aging

How to Fix Black Leaves on Pothos

1. Check soil moisture.

2. Remove black/damaged leaves with clean scissors.

3. Adjust watering habits.

4. Ensure correct light.

5. Maintain a temperature of 65–85°F & 40–60%.

6. Treat pests/diseases if spotted.

7. Repot if roots are rotting.

How to Prevent Pothos Black Leaves (Long-Term Care)

• Water only when the top 2 inches of soil are dry.

• Use a well-draining soil mix.

• Place in bright, indirect light.

• Maintain warm temps & moderate humidity.

• Fertilize lightly during the growing season.

• Inspect leaves weekly for pests.

• Clean leaves monthly to avoid dust buildup.

FAQs

1. Why are my pothos leaves turning black?

Because of overwatering, underwatering, poor light, pests, or fertilizer issues.

2. What causes black spots on pothos leaves?

Usually, fungal/bacterial infection, pests, or sunburn.

3. Can golden pothos leaves turn black from too much sun?

Yes, direct sun for more than 2 hours can scorch leaves.

4. Should I cut off black pothos leaves?

Yes, trim damaged leaves so the plant can focus on new growth.

5. Can a pothos plant with black leaves recover?

Yes, if the roots are healthy. If roots are rotting, you can propagate healthy cuttings.

Conclusion

Pothos leaves turning black is a common issue, but it’s almost always fixable. By checking water, light, temperature, humidity, and pests, you can quickly spot the cause.

Remember:

• Keep soil moist but not soggy.

• Provide bright, indirect light.

• Maintain warm, humid conditions.

• Act fast when you see black spots or leaves.

With proper care, your pothos will bounce back and continue growing lush, green vines for years