Devil's Ivy

Devil's Ivy (Epipremnum aureum, commonly known as Pothos) is one of the most resilient indoor plants, but it is extremely vulnerable to root rot caused by persistent overwatering and stagnant soil. Fungal pathogens such as Pythium thrive in oxygen-deprived, waterlogged conditions, rapidly destroying the root system and preventing the plant from absorbing nutrients. Beginners usually notice lower leaves turning bright yellow, stems becoming soft or limpy, and the overall plant wilting despite the soil being wet. As the decay spreads, black or dark brown patches appear on leaves, and a faint sour or damp odor may emerge from the pot. In Indian households, root rot is particularly common during the monsoon season when humidity delays soil drying, as well as in low-light indoor corners or air-conditioned rooms. Using non-draining decorative pots or heavy garden soil without aerating amendments like perlite or sand drastically increases the risk.