Question
I have just aquired several new Pothos from a friend.  They were
outside before on a covered patio and were doing really well.  
Since I have put them in the house, the leaves are getting droopy
and yellowing.  I have them close to an east facing window, but
am not sure how much water, light and all that to give them so
they will once again flourish. Could the symptoms be trauma
from moving? I did not repot them or anything.
Anyway, whatever help you can give me would be great.  I feel so
silly when my friends say these things grow like weeds and I
have problems!
Thank you for your time and attention,
Holly

Answer
Hi Holly,

Like many plants, Pothos do produce yellow leaves in response to a major change in their environment. The light outside on a covered patio is brighter than indoor light. You should expect some of the older leaves to yellow as the plant gradually adapts by adding new leaves (at the ends of each stem) that are more suited to the reduced light.

If your Pothos is also wilting, then that suggests a water-related problem. If the soil gets very dried out, then the leaves will wilt and perk up again after a thorough watering. On the other hand, if the soil is kept constantly moist, then the roots may rot and also cause the plant to wilt. In the latter case, adding water will not help and the plant is unlikley to recover.

The top 1-2 inches of soil should feel dry to the touch before you water your Pothos thoroughly.

It is quite common for plants to get overwatered after they are moved inside. This is because plants in reduced light use far less water and people don't make the appropriate adjustment in the watering schedule.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

If this information has been helpful, please remember to give me an AllExperts rating and nomination.