Why Are My Satin Pothos Leaves Curling?
Satin pothos, a popular houseplant known for its large, thick leaves and trailing vines, can sometimes develop curling leaves. While this can be alarming, it’s usually not a sign of a dying plant and can often be fixed easily. Here are six potential reasons why your satin pothos leaves might be curling, along with solutions for each:
Underwatering
Underwatering is a common cause of curling leaves in many houseplants, including satin pothos. Check the soil to see if it’s dry. If so, give your plant a thorough watering. The leaves should perk back up within a few hours. If they don’t, there may be another issue.
In severe cases, underwatering can damage the roots, making it difficult for the plant to absorb water. If watering doesn’t solve the problem, check the roots for signs of shriveling. If the roots are damaged, you may need to take stem cuttings and propagate them to help the plant grow new roots.
Overwatering
Overwatering can also cause satin pothos leaves to curl. These plants prefer to dry out partially between waterings and should never be left sitting in soggy soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can also cause curling leaves.
If you suspect overwatering, remove the plant from its pot and replace the soil with a fresh, well-draining mix. Check the roots for signs of root rot (mushy, brown roots) and cut away any affected roots before repotting. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent future overwatering. Allow the plant to dry out completely before watering it again.
Temperature Shock
Satin pothos are tropical plants that prefer temperatures between 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 25 degrees Celsius). Sudden changes in temperature can cause temperature shock, leading to curling leaves, drooping leaves, yellowing leaves, and other symptoms.
If you suspect temperature shock, examine your plant’s growing environment and try to identify the source of the temperature change. If you recently moved the plant to a new location, try moving it back to its original spot and acclimating it slowly to the new conditions.
Pest Infestation
Curling leaves can sometimes be a sign of a pest infestation. Examine your satin pothos carefully for pests, especially on the undersides of the leaves and in crevices. Treat your houseplants regularly with insecticide as a preventative measure, and apply an insecticide immediately if you see any signs of an infestation. Isolate the infested plant to prevent the pests from spreading.
Too Much Sun
Satin pothos prefer bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves and cause them to curl inward. Ensure your plant is positioned in a location that receives plenty of indirect light but is protected from the sun’s direct rays, especially during the afternoon when the sun is strongest.
Low Humidity
Overly dry conditions can also cause satin pothos leaves to curl. While these plants generally tolerate typical household humidity levels, they may suffer in excessively dry air. Move your plant to a more humid location, such as a bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room. You can also place a humidifier near the plant to increase the humidity levels.
