Should you bottom water pothos?

Answered by Frank Schwing

In my experience, bottom watering is definitely a beneficial practice for pothos plants. I’ve had my fair share of struggles with leaf spots on my pothos due to splashing water, and bottom watering has proven to be an effective solution.

When you water your pothos from the top, there’s a risk of water splashing onto the leaves. This can create a perfect environment for leaf spot diseases to develop. I’ve noticed that when water droplets sit on the leaves for too long, they can cause discoloration and eventually lead to unsightly spots. This not only affects the plant’s aesthetics but can also hinder its overall health.

To avoid this issue, I started bottom watering my pothos plants. This method involves placing the potted plant in a tray or basin filled with water and allowing the roots to absorb water from the bottom. By doing this, I eliminate the possibility of water splashing onto the leaves and causing leaf spots.

Bottom watering has an added advantage of ensuring good soil hydration. When you water from the top, there’s a chance that the water may flow unevenly and not reach the root system adequately. However, with bottom watering, the roots can take up water as needed, allowing for more consistent and thorough hydration.

I’ve found that bottom watering not only prevents leaf spots but also promotes healthier growth in my pothos plants. Since the roots have direct access to water, they can absorb it more efficiently, leading to improved overall plant health. I’ve noticed that my pothos plants have become lusher and more vibrant since I started bottom watering them.

To bottom water your pothos, simply fill a tray or basin with water and place your potted plant in it. Allow the plant to sit in the water for about 15-20 minutes, or until you see the topsoil becoming moist. Once the soil is adequately hydrated, remove the plant from the water and allow any excess water to drain out.

I understand that every person’s experience may vary, but based on my personal experience and the positive impact it has had on my pothos plants, I highly recommend bottom watering as a preventative measure against leaf spots and a means of ensuring good soil hydration. Give it a try and see if it makes a difference for your pothos plants too!