How often to water a pothos

Epipremnum aureum

Every 1 to 2 weeks, when the top inch or two of soil is dry.

Pothos would rather dry out a little than sit wet, which makes it forgiving of a missed week. In bright light it drinks faster; in a dim corner it can go much longer between waterings.

Pothos schedule

Water

Spring and summer: About every 1 to 2 weeks
Fall and winter: About every 2 to 3 weeks

Feed

Spring and summer: Monthly, balanced liquid feed at half strength
Fall and winter: None

Check the soil first. Water only when it is as dry as this guide says.

How to tell it is time to water

Push a finger into the soil up to the second knuckle. If it feels dry at that depth, water until it runs out of the drainage hole, then empty the saucer.

Signs of overwatering

Yellow leaves, often starting with the oldest ones near the soil
Soft, dark stems at the soil line
Soil that still feels wet a week after watering

Signs of underwatering

Limp, drooping vines that perk up within a day of watering
Dry, crispy brown edges on the leaves
Soil pulling away from the side of the pot

Light and pot

Light: Bright, indirect light keeps it growing and drinking steadily. It tolerates low light, but the soil stays wet longer, so stretch the gap between waterings.
Pot and soil: Use a pot with a drainage hole and an ordinary potting mix. Pothos does not mind being a little root-bound.
Pets: Listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach.

This schedule is general guidance for a healthy indoor plant. Light, temperature, humidity, pot size and soil all change how fast it dries out, so check the soil before you water and adjust.