Why Are My Pothos Leaves Curling? Causes, Fixes & Pro Tips

Pothos plants are tough, beautiful, and famously beginner-friendly. But even the easiest plants can throw us a curveball—like curling leaves. If you’ve noticed your pothos leaves curling, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too, staring at my plant, wondering, “Did I do something wrong?” Let me walk you through everything I’ve learned, both from my personal experience and deep plant-care research.

Whether it’s a satin pothos, golden pothos, or neon variety, curling leaves are usually a sign that something’s off—but the good news? It’s almost always fixable.

What Does It Mean When Pothos Leaves Curl?

Pothos leaves curl when they’re stressed. This curling is your plant’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s not right down here!” It might be about water, light, temperature, roots, or even the pot it’s in.

Think of it like a signal flare. Your job is to decode it.

1. Underwatering – The Most Common Reason

Symptoms:

• Leaves curl inward or droop
  
• Soil feels bone dry
  
• Plant looks “limp”
  

This is the #1 reason I’ve seen pothos leaves curl, especially in warm weather. When your plant doesn’t get enough water, it starts conserving moisture—and curling leaves help reduce surface area to minimize water loss.

Fix:

• Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom.
  
• Use your finger to check soil moisture regularly.
  
• Consider bottom watering once a month for even hydration.
  

Real-life note: My satin pothos curls dramatically when I forget to water it for a week, especially if it’s in a brighter spot. After a good drink, it perks up within 24 hours.

2. Overwatering – The Sneaky Twin

Symptoms:

• Leaves curl, droop, or go mushy
  
• Soil stays wet for days
  
• Yellowing lower leaves
  
• Possible odor from soil
  

Here’s where it gets tricky—overwatering causes similar curling to underwatering. The reason? Damaged or rotting roots can’t absorb water, so the plant still acts thirsty.

Fix:

• Check if the soil feels soggy—if yes, pause watering.
  
• Inspect the roots. If they’re brown and mushy, trim them and repot in fresh soil.
  
• Use a well-draining mix with perlite and coco coir.
  

Tip: If you’re unsure, don’t water “just in case.” Check soil moisture 2–3 inches deep or use a moisture meter.

3. Too Much Direct Sunlight

Symptoms:

• Leaves curl and look faded or crispy
  
• Plant faces a south- or west-facing window
  
• Brown patches or sunburn marks
  

Pothos prefer bright indirect light. If they sit in harsh sun, especially during hot afternoons, leaves may curl as a defense mechanism. This happens often with satin pothos (Scindapsus pictus), which naturally grows under dense jungle canopies.

Fix:

• Move your plant to a bright but filtered light spot.
  
• Use sheer curtains or place it 3–4 feet away from a window.
  
• Avoid placing it directly on sunny windowsills.
  

Observation: After placing my silver pothos on a wooden shelf near a west-facing window, its leaves curled. I moved it a few feet away, and the new growth came out flat and healthy.

4. Temperature Stress (Too Cold or Too Hot)

Pothos thrive in the same temperatures we do—between 18–29°C (65–85°F). Anything below 15°C (59°F) or sudden drops in temperature can stress your plant.

Symptoms:

• Curling, droopy leaves
  
• No growth during cooler months
  
• Brown edges in winter
  

Fix:

• Keep your plant away from cold drafts and AC vents.
  
• Avoid placing it near heaters or windows that get frosty.
  
• If your home gets chilly at night, move it to a warmer spot.
  

5. Poor Soil or Nutrient Deficiency

Sometimes the problem is in the potting mix itself. If it’s compacted, hydrophobic (repels water), or nutrient-poor, the roots can’t function well—and the leaves may curl.

Symptoms:

• Leaves curl and stay curled even after watering
  
• Soil pulls away from the pot edges
  
• Stunted growth or pale leaves
  

Fix:

• Repot in a fresh, well-draining pothos soil mix.
  
• Mix 1 part potting soil, 1 part coco coir, and 1 part perlite.
  
• Fertilize every 4–6 weeks in spring/summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.
  

6. Root-Bound Pothos

If your pothos has been in the same pot for over a year, roots might be circling the pot tightly, limiting water absorption.

Symptoms:

• Curling leaves
  
• Roots poking out of drainage holes
  
• Water runs through soil too quickly
  

Fix:

• Gently remove the plant and check for tight roots.
  
• If root-bound, loosen roots and move up to a pot 1–2 inches wider.
  
• Refresh the soil and water thoroughly.
  

7. Pest Infestation

While less common, spider mites or thrips can cause curling leaves by sucking plant sap.

Symptoms:

• Curled or deformed new leaves
  
• Fine webbing or tiny specks under leaves
  
• Sticky residue
  

Fix:

• Wipe leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
  
• Isolate the plant to prevent spreading.
  
• Rinse leaves regularly and keep humidity up.
  

Curling But Can’t Figure Out Why?

Try this process of elimination:

1. Check moisture: dry = water, soggy = pause.
   
2. Inspect the roots: healthy roots are white and firm.
   
3. Evaluate lighting: too bright or too dim?
   
4. Check the pot: too small or no drainage?
   
5. Review recent changes: have you moved it recently?
   

Variety-Specific Notes

• Satin Pothos (Scindapsus pictus): Sensitive to overwatering and bright light. Loves consistent moisture but hates soggy roots.
  
• Golden Pothos: More forgiving but can curl in both dry and cold environments.
  
• Neon Pothos: Needs bright light to retain its color—too much direct sun can cause curling and fading.
  
• Marble Queen: Slower grower; often curls if rootbound or neglected.
  

FAQ – Pothos Curling Questions (People Also Ask)

❓ Why are my pothos leaves curling inward?

Most likely, your plant is either underwatered or receiving too much direct sunlight. Check soil dryness and light levels.

❓ Can overwatering cause pothos leaves to curl?

Yes! Overwatering can damage roots, preventing water uptake, which mimics the signs of drought.

❓ How do I know if my pothos is underwatered or overwatered?

Check the soil. Dry and dusty? It’s thirsty. Wet or soggy? You might be overwatering. A moisture meter helps too!

❓ Should I trim curled pothos leaves?

Only trim if they’re damaged, yellow, or crispy. Otherwise, let them recover after you fix the issue.

❓ How often should I water my pothos?

Usually once every 7–10 days, but always check the soil before watering. Your plant’s needs change with the seasons.

Final Tips From My Own Plant Journey

• Routine is everything. Create a watering and light-check habit.
  
• Don’t panic over a few curled leaves. Your pothos is resilient.
  
• Always go by feel, not just the calendar. The plant tells you what it needs—listen closely.
  

With some simple care adjustments, your pothos will reward you with lush, uncurling, vibrant leaves. It’s not about being a perfect plant parent—it’s about staying curious and observant.

Happy growing!