The money plant—also known as Pothos or Devil’s Ivy—is one of the easiest, most forgiving houseplants. But even this hardy plant can show signs of stress, the most common being yellowing leaves. When the vibrant green foliage fades to yellow, it’s a signal that something in the plant’s environment needs attention.
This guide explains the main causes of yellow leaves
and shares simple, effective home remedies to bring your money plant
back to health.
1. Overwatering: The Most Common Cause
Money plants do not like “wet feet.” Too much water
suffocates the roots, leading to yellowing leaves and root rot.
Signs of Overwatering
- Soft,
yellow leaves
- A
musty smell from the soil
- Soil
stays wet for days
Home Remedy
- Allow
the soil to dry halfway down before watering again.
- Empty
any water sitting in the saucer.
- If the
plant looks severely affected, repot it into fresh, dry soil to
save the roots.
2. Underwatering: Not Enough Moisture
Dry soil for too long can also stress the plant, causing
yellow or crispy leaves.
Signs of Underwatering
- Dry,
droopy leaves
- Soil
pulls away from the pot edges
Home Remedy
- Water
deeply until water drains out the bottom.
- Maintain
a consistent schedule—generally once every 7–10 days, depending on
your climate.
3. Poor Light Conditions
Money plants prefer bright, indirect light. Too much
direct sun burns the leaves, while too little light can cause yellowing and
slow growth.
Home Remedy
- Place
the plant near a window where it receives filtered light.
- Avoid
harsh midday sun.
- If
indoors is too dim, consider using a small LED grow light.
4. Nutrient Deficiency
A lack of essential nutrients—especially nitrogen—can cause
pale or yellow leaves.
Home Remedy
- Feed
the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer (like 10-10-10) once
every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
- Use a
mild, homemade fertilizer such as banana peel water or diluted
rice water.
5. Poor Soil or Compacted Roots
Old soil can lose nutrients and drainage ability. Roots that
become too crowded may also struggle to take up water and minerals.
Home Remedy
- Repot
your money plant every 1–2 years.
- Use a
mix of potting soil + coco peat + perlite for good drainage.
- Trim
off any black or mushy roots.
6. Pests: Tiny But Harmful
Common pests—like spider mites, mealybugs, or aphids—can
stress the plant and turn leaves yellow.
Home Remedy
- Wipe
leaves with a cloth dipped in soapy water.
- Use a
mixture of 1 tablespoon neem oil + water to spray the plant weekly
until pests disappear.
- Keep
the plant clean and dust-free.
7. Natural Aging
Sometimes yellow leaves are perfectly normal. Older leaves
at the bottom naturally age and fall off.
Home Remedy
- Simply
remove old yellow leaves to keep the plant tidy.
- New
green leaves will continue to grow from the top.
Quick Checklist to Keep Your Money Plant Healthy
✔ Water only when the top layer
of soil is dry
✔ Give it bright but indirect sunlight
✔ Fertilize lightly during the growing season
✔ Keep the plant in well-draining soil
✔ Dust leaves and check regularly for pests
✔ Repot when roots become crowded
Final Thoughts
Yellow leaves on a money plant are usually easy to fix once
you understand what your plant is trying to tell you. Whether it’s too much
water, too little light, or a nutritional issue, simple home remedies can
revive your plant quickly.
With a bit of attention and care, your money plant will
return to its lush, vibrant green—bringing beauty, freshness, and positive
energy back into your home.
Sources of Reference
1. Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) – Epipremnum
aureum (Pothos) Plant Care
Provides expert guidance on watering, lighting, pests, and
general indoor plant maintenance.
2. University of Florida IFAS Extension – Indoor
Plants: Care and Problems
Covers common causes of yellowing leaves, watering
disorders, nutrient deficiencies, and environmental stress.
3. University of Minnesota Extension – Houseplant Care
Basics
Explains watering practices, soil conditions, light
requirements, and repotting guidelines.
4. Clemson Cooperative Extension – Houseplant
Troubleshooting Guide
Useful for identifying causes of yellowing leaves, pests,
and root issues.
5. Missouri Botanical Garden (MBG) – Epipremnum aureum
Profile
Offers botanical details, growth habits, and care needs for
money plants.
6. American Horticultural Society (AHS) – Plant Care
& Indoor Gardening References
A trusted source for general plant care, nutrition, and
environmental requirements.
7. Gardening Know How & Gardener’s Path – Practical
Houseplant Care Guides
Provide accessible advice on watering mistakes, soil
drainage, and simple home remedies.
