Quick answer: Brown pothos leaves can reflect dry roots, prolonged wet soil, direct sunlight, fertilizer salt buildup or pests. Dry crispy borders and soft dark lesions tell different stories, so check pot weight, drainage and recent care changes before watering, repotting or spraying.
Brown tips, edges and patches are different
Brown tips on several leaves can follow intermittent dry spells, fertilizer salts or heating drafts. Broad dry tan patches facing a newly sunny window suggest sun scorch. Soft or expanding dark spots with yellow halos can raise a different question about disease, especially if several new leaves are affected. Brown leaves alone do not establish an insect or fungus.
Check both dry and waterlogged possibilities
A light pot with dry mix needs thorough watering that penetrates the root ball and drains out. A heavy pot with wet mix needs drainage evaluation and perhaps root inspection if the vine is declining. The two problems can both result in leaf browning because roots are unable to supply water effectively. Avoid a rigid every-seven-days schedule and empty water from cachepots.
Sun exposure, dry heat and fertilizer
Sudden strong direct sun after a shaded period can burn leaf tissue. Provide bright filtered light and acclimate slowly to any stronger exposure. Heating or AC drafts can dry edges or cause abrupt changes in foliage. If tips browned after a heavy feeding, stop fertilizer and check salt accumulation and roots; adding more nutrients will not heal brown tissue.
Check pests before choosing a spray
Scale, mites, mealybugs and thrips may discolor leaves. Inspect veins and undersides using a strong light. Use a houseplant-labeled product only for a confirmed pest and follow its application directions. Some sprays can themselves burn foliage in strong light, so never substitute repeated spraying for identification.
Prevent repeat damage
Use loose potting mix and a pot with unobstructed drainage, stable indirect light and watering based on root-zone conditions. Take photos to track progression and leave largely green foliage in place. Trim fully dead portions for appearance or disease management but avoid unnecessary severe pruning while roots are stressed.
Frequently asked questions
Will brown tips turn green?
No. Watch the next leaves for improved health.
Should all brown leaves be cut?
Not if they still have substantial healthy green tissue and no diagnosed spreading infection.