How to Fertilize Pothos to Help It Grow and Thrive

Has your pothos been looking a bit drab lately? While this plant is known for its resilience to various growing conditions, it may need a little nutrient boost to become healthy again and bring luster back to its foliage. Applying fertilizer can give pothos whatever nutrients it may be lacking and help stimulate growth. But, knowing how to fertilize pothos correctly is vital to ensure your plant thrives.

Our experts take the guesswork out of the process by explaining exactly how to properly fertilize pothos, which fertilizers to use, and signs your plant needs the extra boost.

What Kind of Fertilizer Should You Use on Pothos?

Melvin Cubian, a certified botanist from the PlantIn app, says there are many fertilizer products to choose from, and personal preferences often determine which option people select. “I would suggest using a slow-release fertilizer pellet with at least 5-5-5 or 10-10-10 NPK, nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium, nutrient ratio,” he says. “Applied on top of the soil, this often lasts for a year or more until the pellets have completely dissolved over time.”

Expert gardener Mike Murphy suggests using a balanced liquid fertilizer of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK. Liquid fertilizer can be an easy way to provide essential nutrients without overwhelming the plant.

Both experts also recommend organic options, such as compost tea, diluted fish emulsion, or worm castings for a more natural approach. But, Cubian warns that these can leave a stinky smell indoors. 

When Should You Fertilize Pothos?

Timing is important when it comes to fertilizing your pothos. Murphy says you should fertilize pothos during the active growth period. “Fertilize once a month in spring and summer when the plant is actively growing, and reduce in fall and winter,” he says. “Growth slows down in cooler months, so fertilizing every 6-8 weeks or stopping entirely during this time is best.”

Cubian explains further that application in late fall to winter is discouraged because it can trigger new leaf growth, which is sensitive to temperature drops or cold temperatures. On the other hand, if you live in the tropics or have a relatively warm winter, application can be done year-round.

How to Tell When a Pothos Needs Fertilizer

Cubian says that if there seems to be no new growth—for example, leaves get smaller and smaller, vines grow stunted or thin, or foliage appears pale or yellowish—this often calls for a fertilizer application. “You should also check whether [the plant] is during its “dormancy”,” he explains. For instance, in winter, they tend to slow down or not produce new leaves at all.”

“So, if you see the previously mentioned sign on its active growth period when it’s supposed to flourish, fertilization is likely needed.

So, if your plant is in its active growth period, but isn’t showing much growth, fertilization is likely needed, Cubian explains. While fertilizing, he says to be sure to also “address other issues that are linked to nutrient deficiency, such as when the soil is too old, or the pot is too cramped, which often limits the element absorption in the roots.”

Signs You Should Skip Fertilizing Pothos

Murphy says you should hold off on fertilizing if you notice browning leaf tips because it may indicate over-fertilization or salt buildup. Another instance is if the plant has recently been repotted, because fresh soil already contains essential nutrients.

“A well-fed pothos is a happy, thriving plant, but it’s important to strike the right balance—too much or too little fertilizer can impact its growth,” he advises. 

How to Fertilize Pothos to Make It Flourish

Cubian says that you can fertilize your pothos in several ways depending on the fertilizer of your choice. Here are the best methods for fertilizing pothos and how to use them:

Use a Balanced Liquid Fertilizer

Using a liquid fertilizer is one of the easiest ways to fertilize your pothos plant. Murphy says you should use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer and dilute it to half-strength to prevent overfeeding. “Pour the fertilizer solution directly into the soil after watering to help distribute nutrients evenly and prevent root burn,” he instructs.

Cubian says you should always follow the product instructions to know the safest way to dilute the fertilizer and know how frequently you should use it. “If you prefer a liquid solution like fish emulsion, it is best to dilute a few drops into your watering, done every week or two, to promote growth but without the risk of over-fertilization,” he informs.

Apply Pellet Fertilizer or Organic Fertilizers

Cubian says other fertilizer forms, such as pellets or organic ones, like worm castings and compost, can be applied as side-dress. You simply scatter a few pellets or apply a thin sheet evenly over the soil or slightly under it. Over time, the fertilizer should dissolve with a regular irrigation schedule.

Murphy says the key to fertilizing pothos properly is to avoid over-fertilizing. “Too much fertilizer can cause salt buildup in the soil, leading to browning leaf tips or stunted growth,” he says. “If this happens, flush the soil with water to remove excess nutrients.”

Remember, it’s vital to find the right balance when fertilizing your pothos. Keep an eye out for signs it needs fertilizing and make sure you troubleshoot other potential problems that can be causing your pothos issues before fertilizing.