black spots on Pothos
Quick answer
If your Pothos has black spots, the most likely cause is: Black spot disease on pothos caused by fungal pathogens (Phyllosticta, Cercospora, or Alternaria species) that spread via water splash from infected plants to healthy tissue. Infected mother plants transmit pathogens to all cuttings; misting creates water droplets that facilitate spore dispersal and germination in stagnant humid microenvironments with poor air circulation.
Start here:
- 1. Sterilize scissors with 70% isopropyl alcohol before and after EACH cut to prevent cross-contamination between plants
- 2. Remove ALL affected leaves immediately, cutting petioles at the base; dispose in sealed plastic bag away from other plants
Why Pothos gets black spots
Epipremnum aureum
Black spot disease on pothos caused by fungal pathogens (Phyllosticta, Cercospora, or Alternaria species) that spread via water splash from infected plants to healthy tissue. Infected mother plants transmit pathogens to all cuttings; misting creates water droplets that facilitate spore dispersal and germination in stagnant humid microenvironments with poor air circulation.
How to reverse black spots on Pothos
- 1
Sterilize scissors with 70% isopropyl alcohol before and after EACH cut to prevent cross-contamination between plants
- 2
Remove ALL affected leaves immediately, cutting petioles at the base; dispose in sealed plastic bag away from other plants
- 3
STOP all misting immediately; pothos prefer 40-60% ambient humidity without direct leaf wetting
- 4
Increase air circulation with fan on low speed positioned 3-4 feet from plants to dry foliage and disrupt humid pockets
- 5
Monitor daily for 14 days; apply neem oil spray (1 tsp per quart water with 2 drops dish soap) if new spots appear
Keep black spots off this Pothos
Never mist pothos foliage; use pebble trays or humidifiers for humidity instead. Maintain minimum 12-18 inches spacing between plants to prevent leaf-to-leaf contact. Ensure 6-8 hours of bright indirect light and active air circulation. Inspect and treat mother plants before taking cuttings; propagate only from visibly healthy tissue.
Other Pothos problems
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