Pothos, also called Devil’s Ivy, is often crowned the king of beginner-friendly houseplants. It’s tough, flexible, and can survive a little neglect. But what if you want more than just survival? What if you want a pothos that’s full, vibrant, and growing so fast you need to prune it regularly?
Here’s the truth: the secret to unlocking that next level of pothos growth often comes down to repotting. While many plant parents know they should repot, few understand how to do it strategically to promote lush, accelerated growth.
In this guide, you’ll discover tried-and-true pothos repotting secrets for a fuller, faster-growing plant. You’ll learn not just when to repot but how to do it in a way that dramatically improves your plant’s health, structure, and growth speed.
Let’s get growing.
Why Repotting Matters More Than You Think
Can a Simple Pot Change Really Boost Growth?
Yes, and here’s why: pothos plants are root-sensitive. If their roots are cramped, stressed, or suffocating, the plant simply won’t grow well—no matter how much light or love you give it.
Repotting is about more than aesthetics or giving your plant more legroom. It’s a biological reset button. When done right, repotting:
- Releases bound roots: Pothos often become root-bound, meaning roots circle the inside of the pot and strangle themselves, limiting water and nutrient uptake.
- Refreshes nutrient levels: Over time, soil becomes depleted of vital nutrients, especially in closed pots.
- Rebalances soil moisture: Old soil compacts and loses its ability to retain and drain moisture properly, leading to root rot or dehydration.
- Stimulates new root growth: Trimming and loosening roots encourages branching and rejuvenation.
- Creates room for expansion: More space below equals more leaves and vines above.
When your pothos can breathe and feed efficiently, it rewards you with stunning foliage and vigorous vines.
When Should You Repot Your Pothos?
How Do You Know It’s Time?
Your pothos won’t sound an alarm when it’s outgrown its home, but it drops hints if you know what to look for.
Top signs it’s time to repot include:
- Roots growing out of drainage holes or pushing the plant up from the pot
- Water rushing straight through the pot—a sign that soil is too compact or root-bound
- Yellowing, limp, or drooping leaves despite good watering habits
- Soil drying out too quickly after watering
- Slowed or stunted growth, especially during active growing seasons
Best Time of Year to Repot?
Always aim to repot during spring or early summer, when your pothos is in its natural growth phase. Repotting during fall or winter may shock the plant, as it’s likely in a dormant or slow-growth state.
Choosing the Right Pot and Soil
What Kind of Pot Is Best for Pothos?
Picking the right container might seem minor, but it’s a key player in pothos health.
Here’s what to look for:
- Drainage Holes Are a Must
Pothos roots are sensitive to overwatering. Without drainage, water can pool at the bottom and cause root rot. - Size Matters
Don’t jump too far ahead with pot size. A pot that’s too big will retain excess moisture and create an unstable root environment. Increase diameter by just 1–2 inches from the previous pot. - Material Choice
- Terracotta: Breathable and great for preventing overwatering
- Plastic or Ceramic: Retains moisture better, ideal for hot/dry homes
Pick based on your home’s humidity and watering habits.
What’s the Best Soil Mix?
Generic potting soil can work—but a custom mix will truly accelerate growth.
Ideal Pothos Potting Mix Recipe:
- 2 parts indoor potting mix (nutrient base)
- 1 part perlite or pumice (increases drainage and airflow)
- 1 part coco coir or peat moss (retains moisture without becoming soggy)
This combo creates a loose, airy, and nutrient-rich environment perfect for pothos roots to stretch, breathe, and grow.
Step-by-Step: How to Repot Pothos Like a Pro
Ready to Get Your Hands Dirty?
Here’s a simple, foolproof guide to repotting your pothos for optimal results.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
- A new pot (1–2 inches wider than the old one)
- Fresh potting mix
- Gardening gloves (optional)
- Pruning shears or scissors
- Trowel or spoon
- Watering can
- A tarp or old towel to catch mess
Step 2: Gently Remove the Pothos
- Water the plant lightly a day before repotting to make removal easier.
- Tip the pot sideways and gently slide the plant out, holding near the base.
- If it’s stuck, tap the pot’s sides or bottom—don’t yank!
Step 3: Inspect the Roots
- Check for signs of rot: black, mushy, or foul-smelling roots should be trimmed.
- Tease apart tight root balls to encourage spreading.
- Use clean scissors to prune away excess or looping roots.
Step 4: Place in the New Pot
- Add a layer of fresh soil to the bottom of the pot.
- Center the plant inside and backfill around it with more potting mix.
- Firm the soil gently with your fingers—don’t pack it down too tightly.
Step 5: Water Thoroughly
- Water the plant until excess drains from the bottom.
- This settles the soil and removes air pockets around roots.
- Avoid fertilizing immediately—wait 3–4 weeks to reduce stress.
Bonus Tip: Repotting for Fullness
Want a Bushier Plant? Try This Pothos Hack
One of the best-kept pothos secrets: plant multiple cuttings together when repotting.
Here’s how:
- Take several healthy vine cuttings from your original plant.
- Place them in water for 2–3 weeks until roots form.
- During repotting, plant those cuttings alongside the mother plant in the same pot.
This gives the illusion of a single, extra-full plant—and promotes more vines from the base.
The result? A dramatically fuller pothos that looks like it belongs in a botanical garden.
Aftercare: Helping Your Pothos Bounce Back
What Should You Do Post-Repotting?
After repotting, your plant may look a little stressed—but don’t worry. That’s normal. With the right aftercare, it will settle in and start flourishing.
Post-Repot Care Tips:
- Light: Place your pothos in a bright, indirect light spot. Too much sun can stress it after repotting.
- Watering: Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry before watering again. Avoid overwatering during this recovery phase.
- Humidity: Light misting helps ease transition shock. Alternatively, place near other plants or a humidity tray.
- Fertilizer: Hold off on feeding for 3–4 weeks. Roots need time to acclimate first.
- Pruning: Once settled, prune leggy vines to promote bushiness and side-shoot growth.
With a little patience, your pothos will bounce back stronger and bushier than ever.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Are You Sabotaging Your Pothos Without Knowing It?
Let’s clear the air on what not to do:
- Overpotting
A pot that’s too large increases the risk of soggy soil and root rot. - Repotting in winter
Plants are semi-dormant and less able to recover from shock. - Skipping root inspection
Failing to prune damaged or bound roots can limit growth potential. - Ignoring drainage holes
Even the best soil won’t save your plant from standing water. - Repotting too often
Don’t repot every few months. Only do so when the plant needs it—usually every 1–2 years.
Avoiding these errors will set your pothos on a steady path toward success.
How Often Should You Repot Pothos?
Is Once Every Few Years Enough?
In general, pothos should be repotted every 12 to 24 months. But that timeline depends on factors like:
- Plant size and growth speed
- The size of the current pot
- Soil condition
- Environmental factors (light, humidity, watering habits)
If your plant looks happy, isn’t rootbound, and is growing steadily—there’s no rush. But if it’s struggling, leggy, or circling its pot, it’s time to make the move.