Pothos Soil Scum: Causes and Solutions

Not Plant Toxins

Chemicals removed from air are never visible. The scummy film has three possible sources:

Possible Causes

1. Soil: Miracle-Gro often has fungus gnat larvae; other contamination possible.
2. Water: Hard water (high minerals) leaves residue. Switch to filtered/distilled. Stop fertilizing.
3. Pot Material: Certain metals react with soil chemicals.

Other Checks

• Pot must be relatively small with drain hole.
• No one adding coffee, tea, soda to soil.
• Pets not using plant as toilet.

Allow top ¼ of soil to dry before watering.