Moving a pothos plant may seem like a simple task, but even a small shift in its environment can lead to big changes in how it grows. These tropical houseplants are sensitive to changes in light, temperature, airflow, and other subtle shifts that may not be obvious at first. If your pothos has stopped growing after being relocated, it could be reacting to one or more of these environmental factors. Here are some common reasons a pothos may stop growing after a move and what to watch for in each case.
1. Sudden Change in Light Exposure
When a pothos plant is moved, the lighting in the new location might be quite different from what it was used to. Even a small shift in direction or distance from a window can lead to less light or stronger light. These sudden changes can confuse the plant, causing it to pause growth as it adjusts. Pothos prefer bright, indirect light and may struggle to adapt quickly. Light is key to photosynthesis, so too much or too little can slow everything down. Giving the plant time to adapt slowly to new lighting can help prevent this shock.
2. Decrease in Humidity Levels
Humidity plays a big role in a pothos plant's health. When moved to a drier area, especially during winter or into rooms with air conditioning, your plant can experience stress. This drop in moisture in the air affects how well it can absorb nutrients and retain water. As a result, the plant may slow down or stop growing. Pothos thrive in humidity levels above 50 percent, and many indoor spaces fall short. Adding a humidifier or placing the plant on a pebble tray with water can help improve its environment.
3. Proximity to Heating or Cooling Vents
Vents that blow hot or cold air can cause big problems for a pothos. If the new spot is near a heater or air conditioner, the plant might suffer from dry air, temperature swings, or direct drafts. This disrupts its growing conditions and can cause leaf damage or halt growth entirely. These vents also dry out the soil faster, making it harder to keep up with watering needs. To avoid this, always place plants far from vents and keep them in areas with stable, gentle airflow.
4. Drafts From Windows, Doors, or Exterior Walls
Even a small draft can change the conditions around a plant. Cold air from windows or doors, or warmth from poorly insulated walls, may shock your pothos. These temperature swings are hard for tropical plants to handle, often causing them to go dormant. Drafts can also dry out the leaves and soil more quickly. If you suspect drafts are a problem, move the plant to a more protected spot, or seal window gaps to maintain consistent conditions.
5. Shift From Indirect to Direct Sunlight
Pothos prefer indirect light and can become stressed when exposed to strong, direct sun. If you move the plant to a windowsill or a place with harsher light, it may react poorly. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, causing browning or fading, which hinders growth. The plant may stop growing altogether to protect itself. Filtered light through a sheer curtain is usually ideal. Keep an eye on leaf color and shape to know if the light is too strong.
6. Inconsistent or Fluctuating Temperatures
Temperature swings can have a strong impact on a pothos. These tropical plants like a steady temperature between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If moved to a spot where the temperature rises or falls quickly, it may stop growing. This often happens near windows, doors, or areas without good insulation. Plants sense stress in their environment and conserve energy by halting growth. Try to place your pothos in a spot with stable, room-temperature conditions.
7. Soil Temperature Changes Near Windows or Walls
The temperature of the soil affects how roots function. When placed near a window or exterior wall, especially in cold seasons, the soil can become too chilly. Cold roots absorb water and nutrients more slowly, which can slow or stop plant growth. If your pothos is near glass or stone surfaces, feel the pot to check for coldness. Moving it a few inches inward or adding insulation can make a big difference in keeping the plant comfortable.
8. Placement Near Appliances That Emit Heat
Some household appliances, like refrigerators or ovens, give off heat that may not seem obvious but can affect plants. If a pothos is too close, the surrounding air may become too warm or dry. This can dry out the soil quickly and reduce the humidity around the plant. Both issues can cause stress, making the plant stop growing. Try to give your pothos space away from any heat sources, including behind televisions or near lamps.
9. Reliance on Artificial Lighting Only
While pothos can survive in low-light areas, depending entirely on artificial lighting can lead to slower growth. Many common indoor lights do not provide the right spectrum for photosynthesis. Fluorescent or LED grow lights can help, but regular ceiling lights might not be enough. If your plant was near a window before and is now in a darker corner, it will need time to adjust. Supplemental grow lights placed near the plant can support healthy growth.
10. Reduced Natural Airflow or Ventilation
Plants need fresh air to stay healthy, and pothos are no exception. When moved to a spot with less natural airflow, the plant may have trouble exchanging gases like carbon dioxide and oxygen. Poor ventilation also encourages pests and fungal issues, which can stunt growth. This is especially true in corners or on crowded shelves. Make sure there is space around the plant and that air can move gently through the area.
11. Improper Watering Due to Environmental Shift
When you move your pothos, the rate at which the soil dries out can change. In a brighter or warmer area, it may dry faster. In a darker or cooler space, it may stay damp longer. This shift can lead to overwatering or underwatering if your routine does not adjust. Both can cause the plant to stop growing. Check the soil with your finger before watering to make sure it's needed. Always water deeply but only when the top inch feels dry.
12. Pot Drainage Problems Unnoticed in New Spot
A new location can affect how water drains from the pot. If the plant is on a flat, sealed surface or placed inside a decorative cover pot, extra water may not escape. This can lead to soggy soil and root rot. When roots are unhealthy, the plant stops growing and may show yellow or limp leaves. Make sure pots have drainage holes and check that water is not pooling underneath. Elevating the pot slightly can also help improve drainage.
13. Recent Repotting Combined With Relocation
Repotting and moving your pothos at the same time can double the stress. Repotting alone disturbs the roots, and moving it adds environmental changes. The plant may respond by halting growth as it tries to adjust to its new surroundings and soil. If both are necessary, try to wait a few weeks between each. Give your plant a stable environment after repotting so it can recover before adapting to a new spot.
14. General Stress From Acclimatization
Like people, plants need time to adjust to new surroundings. Even small changes in light, temperature, or air can affect a pothos. When these factors shift, the plant may pause growth while it acclimates. This is a normal response and usually short-term. You can help by keeping its care routine steady and watching for signs of stress like leaf drop or color changes. With patience, most pothos bounce back within a few weeks.
15. Shorter or Irregular Photoperiods
The length of time a plant gets light each day, called a photoperiod, affects how it grows. If your pothos gets less light in its new spot, even if the quality seems the same, it may stop growing. This often happens when moving a plant from a bright room to one that is used less often or has shorter daylight hours. Use a timer with grow lights if needed to maintain a steady day-night cycle. Regular exposure helps keep growth on track.
16. Separation From Humidity Sources Like Bathrooms
Some rooms naturally offer higher humidity, like bathrooms or kitchens. If your pothos was thriving in one of these places and you moved it, it might be missing the moisture. Dry air in bedrooms or offices can cause the plant to dry out and slow growth. Leaves may curl or brown at the tips. If you need to move your plant, try adding humidity through misting, a tray of water, or placing it near other plants to create a more balanced environment.
17. Poor Air Circulation in New Area
Air movement helps keep the environment healthy around your plant. Without it, moisture can build up, pests may settle in, or the plant may not breathe well. A new location might be more cramped or closed off, limiting circulation. Signs include limp leaves or fungal spots. Keep some space between your pothos and walls or furniture. Even a small fan set to low nearby can help improve airflow and encourage healthier growth.
18. Exposure to Gas Stoves or Air Pollutants
If you move your pothos near a kitchen, fireplace, or area with poor ventilation, it could be exposed to fumes. Gas stoves, candles, or fireplaces may release chemicals that harm plants over time. This kind of pollution can damage leaves and stop growth. Make sure plants are far from cooking or heating areas and open a window if needed. Cleaner air helps plants stay active and vibrant.
19. Reaction to Synthetic Air Fresheners
Some homes use sprays, plug-ins, or scented candles to freshen the air. While these smell pleasant to people, they can be harmful to houseplants. Pothos may stop growing if exposed to airborne chemicals over long periods. These products can coat the leaves or change the air quality, which stresses the plant. Try switching to natural air freshening methods like baking soda, open windows, or essential oil diffusers placed far from plants.
20. Pest or Disease Exposure From Neighboring Plants
When you move your pothos near other plants, you may unknowingly place it next to one with pests or disease. Spider mites, fungus gnats, or mildew can spread quickly. These problems sap the plant's energy and halt growth. Always inspect neighboring plants before placing your pothos nearby. Quarantine new plants for a week or two when bringing them into the home. A healthy environment means less stress and better growth for all your plants.
21. Lower CO2 Levels in Less Ventilated Areas
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is needed for photosynthesis, the process that powers plant growth. In tightly closed rooms or areas with very little fresh air, CO2 levels may drop too low. This is rare but can happen in sealed-off rooms with no windows or airflow. If you moved your pothos to a basement or closed closet, it may be struggling to get enough fresh air. Crack a window or door when possible to improve air quality and help your plant thrive.
22. Increase in Background Noise or Vibration
Plants may not have ears, but they can still react to strong vibrations or constant noise. Moving a pothos near a laundry machine, TV, or stereo can affect its stress levels. While research is still developing, many gardeners have noticed plants respond to sound and vibration. If your plant's growth has slowed after being moved near a noisy device, consider giving it a more peaceful spot. A calmer environment often leads to better growth and overall health.
Helping Your Pothos Thrive Again
When a pothos stops growing after a move, it often tries to tell you something about its new environment. Each plant reacts differently, and even a small detail, like cooler soil or dry air, can make a big impact. The key is to observe your plant closely, adjust its care as needed, and be patient as it settles in. With a little attention and time, your pothos will likely bounce back and return to its usual fast-growing self.