Philodendron Brasil, a popular heartleaf philodendron cultivar, is admired for its distinct variegated foliage and ease of care. This vining plant is a common choice for indoor gardeners. Philodendron Brasil can be successfully grown in water, offering a unique way to display the plant.
How to Start Philodendron Brasil in Water
To begin growing Philodendron Brasil in water, select healthy stem cuttings. Choose a stem about 4 to 5 inches long with at least two to four leaf nodes. Make a clean cut just below a node using sharp scissors or pruning shears, as roots will emerge from these nodes. Carefully remove any leaves that would be submerged in the water to prevent them from rotting.
Place the prepared cuttings into a clear glass container, ensuring at least one node is fully submerged beneath the water line. Using filtered or distilled water at room temperature helps prevent mineral buildup that could hinder root development. Position the container in bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves. Roots typically begin to appear within two to four weeks.
Ongoing Care for Water-Grown Philodendron Brasil
Once your Philodendron Brasil cuttings are established in water, consistent care ensures their continued health. Change the water every 7 to 10 days to keep it fresh and prevent stagnation and bacterial growth. This practice also helps provide oxygen to the roots. Regularly inspect the roots for any signs of rot or discoloration; healthy roots should appear white or light tan.
Since water alone does not provide all necessary nutrients, supplementing with a liquid hydroponic fertilizer is beneficial. During spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, typically diluted to half-strength, about once a month. Optimal lighting conditions involve bright, indirect light for 6 to 8 hours daily, which helps maintain the plant’s distinct variegation. If natural light is insufficient, a full-spectrum grow light can provide the necessary illumination for 8 to 10 hours a day.
Maintaining appropriate environmental conditions supports robust growth. Philodendron Brasil thrives in temperatures between 16 to 29 degrees Celsius (60-85 degrees Fahrenheit) and prefers humidity levels of at least 40%, ideally between 50-70%. While typical household humidity is often sufficient, you can increase it by grouping plants or using a pebble tray. Cleaning the container periodically prevents algae buildup, which can compete with the plant for nutrients and sunlight.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Water Cultivation
Growing Philodendron Brasil in water offers several benefits. One notable advantage is the ease of monitoring root development, allowing you to observe healthy, white roots directly. This method also significantly reduces common houseplant pest issues, such as fungus gnats, as these pests often lay eggs in soil. The aesthetic appeal of roots visible through clear glass containers can also add a decorative element to your living space.
However, water cultivation presents challenges, as water-grown plants require regular nutrient supplementation due to plain water lacking essential soil minerals. Algae growth can become an issue in clear containers exposed to light, necessitating frequent cleaning to prevent competition for nutrients. While Philodendron Brasil can grow well in water, plants grown long-term in soil may achieve larger sizes and more vigorous growth, as soil provides a more complete and stable nutrient environment. Diseases can also spread rapidly through a water-based system if not promptly addressed.