this post was submitted on 25 Jun 2025
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Houseplants

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I've had this plant for a while in other countries, and it was always very easy going. But after the last time I moved the sapling I took with me has started struggling.

The picture is not a perfect illustration, but you can see new leaves coming out turning black in the ends, and eventually drying out and dying. This already happened with a lot of leaves that I cut off, but now it's repeating itself with the new ones.

The plant has been in a relatively bright spot and I think it has received enough water that it shouldn't be the problem. The black parts are completely dead. Does anyone have any idea what can be done? :)

I'm sorry the picture is not more illustrative.

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[โ€“] massive_bereavement@fedia.io 5 points 2 days ago (1 children)

I made a crude diagram, but probably you can try easier options before doing any of these things:

  • Soil cover is only useful (beyond aesthetics) if you're experiencing issues with the top soil or if it is drying too quickly due to direct sun exposition. (I don't think this is related).
  • Soil aeration can help you soil become healthier with good bacteria, but if your soil mix is good enough it shouldn't matter (and Pothos are not that picky IMO).
  • Volcanic rocks are layered enough that if you over-water, let's say an inch, the plant soil won't become soaked. It also has the bonus of having some emergency water for plants in some cases. The main con is that it reduces soil for your plants. Allegedly, it provides minerals for plants, but IMO that's wishful thinking.
  • Drainage is a good learning method, as if the tray has water (again IMO), it means we're over-watering.

Maybe someone can correct any of these points and I can improve my caring.

[โ€“] cabbage@piefed.social 2 points 1 day ago

That's amazing - thank you!!