Root Rot vs Healthy Roots in Pothos Plants: How to Spot the Difference

When growing pothos houseplants, monitoring the condition of the roots is an important part of care. Healthy white roots are key for the plant to thrive. But sometimes, root rot fungi can set in, causing brown, mushy roots that spell trouble for your pothos.

Being able to identify the early signs of root rot versus healthy roots can help you take action before major damage occurs. Here’s what to look for when assessing pothos root health.

Characteristics of Healthy Pothos Roots

When pothos roots are healthy, they will display the following characteristics:

• Color – Healthy roots are generally white or tan They may be paler or darker but shouldn’t show extensive discoloration

• Texture – Firm, sturdy roots with smooth skin and visible segments are ideal. They should not feel soft, mushy, or slimy.

• Shape – Thicker taproots tapering into smaller lateral roots in a web-like pattern is normal. Roots should not be shriveled or distorted

• Odor – Healthy roots have a mild, earthy scent. No foul, rotten odors should be detectable.

• Growth – New white root tips and branching are signs of active, healthy growth.

• Water uptake – Healthy roots readily absorb water and nutrients to sustain the plant.

Early Signs of Root Rot in Pothos

In contrast to the above, here are some telltale signs that root rot may be developing:

• Color change – Roots turn brown, black, grey, or yellowish. Discoloration starts at tips but spreads over time.

• Mushy texture – Roots feel soft, slimy, or hollow when squeezed instead of remaining firm.

• Foul odor – A distinct rotten smell emanates from the roots.

• Limited growth – Few new root branches or tips versus extensive growth in healthy plants.

• Drooping leaves – Wilting leaves or vines signals that diseased roots aren’t taking up water properly.

• Slowed development – The plant may become stagnant and stop actively growing due to declining root health.

• Poor anchorage – Plants can become loose or unrooted from the potting mix as roots die off.

Advanced Signs of Severe Root Rot

Left unchecked, root rot can quickly escalate with the following advanced warning signs:

• Intense discoloration – Roots turn very dark brown, black, or grey and lose original shape and texture.

• Brittle, shriveled roots – Healthy roots become fragile and dried out as rot advances.

• Total loss of roots – In severe cases, the original root structure may rot away completely.

• Extensive leaf yellowing or dropping – Once nutrient uptake halts, foliage declines.

• Rapid plant decline – As the main roots are destroyed, the plant cannot survive and quickly dies.

• Difficult to revive – Advanced rot in the entire root system is often impossible to reverse.

Preventing Root Rot

The best way to avoid root rot in pothos is through proper watering and cultural practices:

• Let soil dry out partially between waterings and reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.

• Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent moisture buildup.

• Use a well-aerated potting mix, not dense soil that retains excess water.

• Avoid oversized containers that stay wet too long. Match pot size to the plant.

• Dump out excess water in decorative pots after watering plants.

• Maintain warm indoor temperatures and ample airflow around plants.

• Sterilize pots and tools to prevent introduction of fungal spores.

Stay vigilant for early signs of root issues. At the first hint of problems, take quick corrective action to restore healthy roots and prevent major root rot damage.

Treating Root Rot

If pothos roots show early stage rot, the following measures may help save the plant:

• Cease watering and allow soil to dry out completely to stop fungal spread.

• Trim off any visibly mushy or discolored roots. Sterilize shears between cuts.

• Rinse remaining healthy roots to wash away rotting tissue and spores.

• Repot the plant in fresh, sterile potting mix amended with horticultural charcoal.

• Treat with fungicidal drench per label instructions to kill lingering root rot fungi.

• Resume watering sparingly, letting soil dry before rewetting to encourage new growth.

Severe cases with extensive root death require propagation of healthy vines in water or moist perlite. Removing all diseased tissue is key to prevent recurrence of root rot in new plants.

With early intervention at the first signs of trouble, pothos stands an excellent chance of recovering from root rot. But consistent proper care is vital to maintain the healthy white roots your plant needs to thrive.