I bought this about a year ago, and it's slowly dying. I can't seem to figure out what type of plant it is to research the care it needs. I've tried watering it a lot, a little, putting it directly in the sun, not in the sun. But it just keeps withering away. Help please!!
It's a pothos. They're pretty hardy plants. I'm nowhere near the experienced gardner that many are on here, but I've managed to keep mine alive for years, and have propagated them successfully as well. As far as mine go, I just put them near a sunny window, water every week or two (about a half a cup to a cup) and watch them grow! They're amongst the most forgiving of house plants, which is why I like them, and also I'm sure why I've managed to grow them successfully. Here's one of mine which I've been growing for a few years now, and have taken cuttings from and made more plants with. I made sure you can see the plant's relationship to its light source in case that helps you.
Over watering kills plants just as often, if not more so, than under watering. It will survive on more benign neglect than you are giving it . Put it in a bright window and let the soil dry out to about the second knuckle when you stick your first finger in the soil. Put in the sink to water so that it will soak up all it needs to get the soil moist. Drain it and put it back in place. About every week check the soil. Keep it pot bound, the roots don't like more room than they need. I have two on a shelf in front of an west facing window and every time we have an unfinished water bottle, I feel the dirt and empty it in one or the other and they love it. By the way, is it still in the store pot you bought it in? You could get a decorative pot the same size with a drainage hole an repot it, that would help it maintain moisture longer.
Hi & welcome! That pot looks like it may have an attached drain saucer. If so, those hold about 1/2 inch of water, which can cause roots to rot. Most of them snap off. Removing it would allow excess water to drip out after watering. Ronni, that looks GREAT! (This plant is hearty, but not hardy below about Z10.)
Aw...thanks! I didn't realize it till I saw my own photo, but don't you love the way all the leaves have turned towards the light?
Absolutely! So cheery )) Your pics would be lovely additions to this plants' entry in the database here: http://www.gardenstew.com/plantstew/502333
Oh. Um...OK. I don't quite know how to do that, but I'll follow the link and see if I can figure it out!
My two cents would be this: The potting mix your poor plant is in might be depleted of nutrients. This is an excellent houseplant to begin with, they are so easy. If I were you- I would re pot it in a new pot just a bit larger with fresh potting mix. As others have mentioned, do not over water. I have so many of these all around my house. They thrive with very little care. It is fun to take cuttings, and create new plants. I usually take cuttings in the fall, root them in water over the winter and pot them up in spring to share.
Thank you all so much! I'll get right on it repotting it and I can place it closer to the window. I really appreciate your help!
Just one more thing. I've learned (the hard way, which is usually the only way I learn, unfortunately ) that it doesn't pay to use cheap, inferior potting soil. Pay the extra and use a name brand. My personal preference is Miracle Gro, but honestly I don't think it matters a great deal as long as you're selecting between the premium brands. Your plants will thank you.
I wouldn't put it too close to the window because of the risk of it getting too cold or too hot... or getting burnt. Good luck!
Cheryl is right, This plant doesn't really need direct sunlight. I have them all over the house, and some are in dim places. They don't seem to mind.
