Pothos—also lovingly known as Devil’s Ivy—is a plant lover’s dream. It’s easy to care for, forgiving, and brings a lush jungle vibe into any home. But what happens when those beautifully trailing leaves start curling? One day they’re flat and glossy, and the next, they’re rolling up like scrolls. Don’t panic—your leafy friend is sending out an SOS.

Curling leaves on a Pothos can be its way of crying out for help, and while the issue might look the same across plants, the causes can be quite varied. In this guide, we’ll dig deep into why your Pothos leaves are curling and explore the best ways to revive them—so your green buddy can bounce back better than ever.

Understanding Leaf Curling in Pothos

What Does Leaf Curling Actually Mean?

Curling isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it’s your plant’s built-in alarm system. When leaves curl inward or downward, it usually signals stress. That stress can come from the roots, the environment, or even the watering schedule.

Think of curling as the plant’s version of closing its eyes. It’s trying to conserve energy, moisture, or protect itself from something in its surroundings. By learning to decode these signals, you’ll become better equipped to nurse your Pothos back to vibrant health.

Common Reasons Why Pothos Leaves Curl

1. Underwatering: Is Your Plant Thirsty?

One of the most common reasons your Pothos is curling up is due to dehydration. These plants may be drought-tolerant, but they still need consistent moisture to maintain those lush, heart-shaped leaves.

Signs of Underwatering

Dry, crispy leaf edges
Soil pulling away from the edges of the pot
Leaves curling inward or drooping dramatically

When the soil dries out completely for long stretches, the roots can’t absorb the nutrients and water the plant needs, leading to curled, stressed leaves.

What to Do

Water thoroughly: Give your plant a deep drink until water drains from the bottom.
Stick to a schedule: Monitor the top 1–2 inches of soil and water when dry.
Use room temperature water: Cold water can shock the roots.
Mist occasionally: Especially helpful in dry seasons or heated rooms.

2. Overwatering: Is Your Plant Drowning?

Yes—too much love can be just as harmful as too little. Overwatering creates soggy soil conditions that reduce oxygen around the roots, leading to rot and curling leaves.

Signs of Overwatering

Yellowing or translucent leaves
Mushy or blackened roots and stems
Leaf curling combined with a soft, limp texture
A musty odor from the soil

How to Fix It

Inspect the roots: Gently remove the plant and trim any black, mushy roots.
Repot: Use fresh, well-draining soil and a clean pot with drainage holes.
Let the soil dry out: Adjust watering habits moving forward.
Use a moisture meter: For accurate soil readings.

3. Low Humidity: Is the Air Too Dry?

Pothos plants are native to tropical forests where the air is consistently humid. In dry indoor environments, the plant may respond by curling its leaves to conserve moisture.

How to Boost Humidity

Group plants together: They release moisture into the air collectively.
Humidity trays: Place your Pothos on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Use a room humidifier: Particularly helpful in winter or dry climates.
Regular misting: Light misting in the mornings can refresh your plant.

4. Excessive Light: Is It Getting Burned?

Pothos thrive in bright, indirect light. When exposed to harsh, direct sun, their leaves can scorch and curl as a defensive mechanism to reduce sun exposure.

Light-Related Symptoms

Brown or crispy leaf tips
Faded or bleached leaf color
Curling away from the light source

How to Help

Reposition the plant: Move it a few feet away from a south-facing window.
Use sheer curtains: To diffuse intense sunlight.
Rotate regularly: Ensure even light distribution by turning the pot weekly.

5. Temperature Stress: Is It Too Hot or Too Cold?

As a tropical plant, Pothos doesn’t appreciate extreme cold or sudden temperature fluctuations. Exposure to cold drafts or hot radiators can stress the plant and cause curling.

Tips for Temperature Control

Maintain a stable range: Ideal temperature is 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C).
Avoid vents and windows: Cold drafts or sudden hot air can harm leaves.
Observe seasonal changes: Protect your Pothos during winter months.

6. Nutrient Deficiencies: Is It Starving?

Pothos are relatively low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean they can thrive on water alone. A lack of key nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and nitrogen can cause leaf curling and discoloration.

Look Out For

Pale green or yellowing leaves
Slow or stunted growth
Curled or wrinkled new leaves

Feeding Fix

Use a balanced fertilizer: Choose one with an equal ratio (e.g., 10-10-10).
Feed monthly: Especially during spring and summer when growth is active.
Flush soil every few months: To remove salt buildup that can harm roots.

7. Pests: Is Something Feasting on Your Plant?

Insects might be tiny, but their impact on your Pothos can be huge. Pests like spider mites, aphids, and thrips feed on plant sap, which weakens the leaves and causes them to curl or deform.

Pest Detection Checklist

Sticky residue or honeydew on leaves
Fine webbing between stems or under leaves
Tiny crawling insects or speckled leaf damage

Get Rid of Pests

Isolate the plant to prevent spreading to others.
Rinse thoroughly: Spray with water to remove bugs.
Wipe leaves: Use a cloth with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Repeat treatment: Every 4–7 days until the infestation is gone.

How to Revive Curling Pothos Leaves

Once you’ve pinpointed the problem, the next step is action. Here’s a detailed rescue plan that can help your Pothos recover fully and continue thriving.

Step-by-Step Revival Plan

Step 1: Diagnose the Root Cause

Observe soil moisture, check for pests, assess lighting, and evaluate temperature. This detective work is crucial.

Step 2: Adjust Watering Habits

Create a consistent watering routine and use tools like a moisture meter or your finger to check dryness before watering.

Step 3: Improve Environmental Conditions

Enhance humidity, moderate the temperature, and adjust the light exposure as needed.

Step 4: Nourish Properly

Feed with a balanced fertilizer and ensure the soil has nutrients your plant needs to recover.

Step 5: Prune and Repot if Necessary

Remove damaged or dead leaves to allow for new growth.
If root rot or compaction is present, repot into fresh, airy soil.

Prevention Tips for Healthy Pothos Leaves

Routine Care Checklist

✅ Water only when soil is dry to the touch.
✅ Keep leaves clean to prevent pests.
✅ Rotate your plant weekly for even growth.
✅ Fertilize once a month during the growing season.
✅ Watch for early signs of stress to intervene quickly.

Preventative care is the best way to avoid curling leaves in the first place. A consistent routine and an observant eye go a long way.

Why Your Pothos Leaves Are Curling (And the Best Ways to Revive Them)