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INDOORPLANTCARE
Repotting · Pothos

How to Repot a Pothos

Every 1–2 years. Best time: Spring or early summer; pothos tolerates repotting nearly year-round. New pot size: 1–2 inches larger in diameter. Pothos tolerate being root-bound longer than most aroids..

Frequency
Every 1–2 years
Best season
Spring or early summer; pothos tolerates repotting nearly year-round
Pot size
1–2 inches larger in diameter. Pothos tolerate being root-bound longer than most aroids.
Soil mix
Standard houseplant potting mix amended with 20–30% perlite for drainage. Pothos are forgiving of soil type.

Signs your Pothos needs repotting

Roots wrapping the rootball in a tight spiral when slipped out; water running straight through without absorbing; vines getting longer with no new leaves at the base.

Step-by-step

  1. 1
    Water the day before to ease the rootball out.
  2. 2
    Slide the plant out and gently loosen the spiraled outer roots.
  3. 3
    For severely root-bound plants, score 4 vertical cuts down the rootball with a clean knife to encourage outward growth.
  4. 4
    Add 1–2 inches of fresh mix to the new pot.
  5. 5
    Place the plant, backfill, and water thoroughly.
  6. 6
    Trim any long leggy vines back by 30% to encourage bushier regrowth.

What kills Pothos after repotting

  • Going up too many sizes — pothos rot fast in oversized pots
  • Forgetting to amend with perlite — dense soil holds too much water
  • Skipping the post-repot trim — missing a chance to force bushier growth

Botanical reference: NC State Extension — Epipremnum aureum

For full Pothos care, see the Pothos care guide. For the basics that apply to any plant, see how to repot a plant (general).