How much sun do pothos need? This is a question that many plant enthusiasts ask when taking care of this popular houseplant. 

Known for their lush foliage and trailing vines, pothos are easy to care for and can thrive in a wide range of light conditions. 

However, understanding the optimal amount of sunlight required for pothos is essential to ensure their longevity and encourage healthy growth. 

In this article, we will explore the ideal sun exposure for pothos, tips for maintaining their health, and common mistakes to avoid.

How many hours of sun does pothos need?

Pothos need at least 12 hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day to remain healthy and vibrant. 

However, even lower light levels or fewer hours of exposure will not typically cause any major problems. 

Though the leaves may be smaller with less intense colors. 

For optimal growth and coloring, keep pothos in a spot that receives bright indirect natural light for at least 12 hours each day. 

Exposing them to a few more hours or providing slightly brighter conditions can also help enhance their appearance further.

How do I know if my pothos is getting enough sun?

To tell if your pothos is getting enough sun, there are a few things you can look for. 

First, the leaves should become a darker green color after a few days of consistent sunlight exposure. 

If you notice that the leaves are not changing or are starting to yellow, that could be an indication that it is not getting enough sun. 

Second, check for new growth. If the plant appears to be stagnant and isn’t producing any new stems or leaves, it might need more light. 

Lastly, check the leaves for signs of sunburn like brown spots or crispy lesions. 

This damage can occur if the sun is too direct or intense and signals that your pothos needs more indirect light.

Can pothos grow in dark room?

Yes, pothos can grow in a dark room. 

It is an evergreen climber that grows best in low-light conditions, making it the perfect houseplant for darker rooms. 

This plant has the ability to develop aerial roots, which allows it to climb up walls and posts and hang from baskets with minimal light. 

Pothos also needs only occasional watering, so it makes an easy-to-care-for addition to any home. 

Furthermore, when the leaves become yellow or pale green, this indicates too much light. 

So in dark rooms, you don’t have to worry about overexposing your plant.

Where is the best place to put a pothos?

The best place to put a pothos is in a room with bright, indirect light and warm temperatures. 

Place the pothos away from direct sunlight and regular drafts, as both of these can affect the plant’s growth and cause it to lose its variegation in the leaves. 

An ideal temperature range for a pothos is between 65-75°F (18-24°C). 

If kept within this temperature range, your pothos will likely thrive indoors with proper lighting and occasional watering.

Conclusion

Pothos is a low-maintenance houseplant that can tolerate lower light conditions, but they need some sunlight to thrive. 

Ideally, pothos should get indirect light for several hours per day, such as from an east or west-facing window. 

Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch their leaves. 

When grown indoors, pothos can survive with as little as two hours of bright light per day and will do best if given more. 

No more than 6-8 hours per day.