Avoid placing your pothos plant at these spots in summer, especially in August, and here’s why doing this can completely stop its growth.
Pothos may be a hardy houseplant, but where you place it in August can change the trajectory of its growth to a large extent. One small mistake in its placement can stress the plant and stop it from thriving, so let us find out what spot to avoid!
Direct Afternoon Sun From South or West Facing Windows
This is the single most damaging location for pothos during August. The sun’s angle and intensity in late summer are still strong, and your south- or west-facing windows receive the harshest afternoon rays.
This quickly scorches the foliage and also leaves brown patches on your plant. The damage is not only cosmetic; this heat stress will disrupt photosynthesis and force the plant into survival mode, while slowing or even halting its growth completely.
The problem doesn’t stop there. Glass amplifies heat, which creates a mini greenhouse effect that dehydrates the soil much faster than expected. This means your pothos may suffer from both leaf burn and root stress simultaneously at such a spot.
Pro Tip: Also, if your pothos is outside in the heat of August, you should bring it to your shaded patio or porch.
Better Alternative Spot for August
Move your pothos to an east-facing window, where it can enjoy soft morning sunlight without the risk of scorching. If east light isn’t available, a few feet back from a south-facing window or sheer curtains works perfectly.
These changes will provide a bright but indirect light, which will encourage steady growth and keep those lush, green leaves healthy.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to rotate your pothos every week so all sides get balanced light without leaning toward the sun.
Other Spots To Avoid In August
1. Close to Air Conditioners or Cooling Vents
If you live in a hot climate, August heat often means blasting the AC indoors, but your pothos won’t thank you for sitting near a cold vent.
The sudden temperature drops and strong airflow dry out the leaves and soil unevenly, which leads to brown tips and root stress. Over time, this fluctuation weakens the plant and slows its growth.
The better option? Place your pothos a few feet away from any vent or air conditioning unit.
2. On Outdoor Patios in Direct Heat
It is tempting to move plants outdoors in summer, but patios and decks often absorb and radiate heat long after the sun sets. This creates an environment that is much hotter than you realize.
Your pothos may suffer from root overheating, which causes yellowing and stunted growth. Instead, give your pothos an outdoor vacation in a shaded and breezy spot like under a pergola or in the dappled light beneath a tree.
3. In Bathrooms with Low Light and Poor Ventilation
Bathrooms sound perfect for humidity, but in summer, they can turn into sultry humid chambers (applicable in USDA Zones 10, 11, and other hot climates) if ventilation is poor.
In the bathroom, high moisture combined with warm temperatures leads to mold growth and root rot, which is bad for pothos.
The solution is to keep your pothos in a bright bathroom window with indirect sunlight and ensure the space is well-ventilated.
4. Near Large Glass Doors with Heat Buildup
As already mentioned, sliding glass doors facing south or west can create a greenhouse effect in summer. This situation ends up trapping heat and raising temperatures around your pothos. This often leads to leaf curling or drooping as the plant tries to conserve moisture.
Over time, extreme fluctuations can stall new leaf growth completely. A smarter move is to position your pothos near an east or north-facing door or at least a few feet away from the glass. Also, move the plant if it is touching the glass directly.
