Philodendrons are a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts, recognized for their diverse and attractive foliage and relatively straightforward care. IKEA serves as a common and accessible retail source for these plants. This guide provides clear instructions for cultivating a thriving Philodendron. Understanding specific care practices helps ensure your plant flourishes in its new home.
Common Philodendron Varieties at IKEA
IKEA often stocks popular Philodendron varieties known for their resilience and decorative appeal. One frequently encountered type is the Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum), characterized by glossy, heart-shaped green leaves and a vining growth habit. This makes it suitable for hanging baskets or climbing supports. A common cultivar is Philodendron brasil, which features distinctive lime-green or yellow variegation on its heart-shaped leaves.
Another vining Philodendron you might find is Philodendron micans, often called the velvet leaf philodendron due to its soft, velvety texture. Its leaves display deep green or rich purple hues, sometimes with bronze or copper undertones. Larger, upright varieties are also occasionally available, such as Philodendron selloum, reclassified as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum. This plant is recognized by its large, deeply lobed leaves that create a tropical appearance. While IKEA’s stock can vary by location and season, check the plant tag or observe leaf characteristics to identify your specific variety.
General Care for Your IKEA Philodendron
Appropriate environmental conditions are important for your Philodendron’s health. Most Philodendrons prefer bright, indirect light, which encourages vibrant foliage and robust growth. Direct sunlight, especially intense afternoon sun, can scorch leaves, leading to discoloration or crispy edges. Insufficient light can result in leggy growth with smaller, darker green leaves. Rotating the plant periodically ensures even light exposure and balanced growth.
Correct watering is a significant factor in Philodendron care, as these plants are susceptible to issues from both over and under-watering. Allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. When watering, thoroughly saturate the soil until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then discard any excess. This prevents the plant from sitting in standing water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while prolonged dryness can cause leaves to droop or curl.
Philodendrons thrive in a well-draining potting mix, ideally one that is chunky and aerated, such as an aroid mix containing peat moss, perlite, or orchid bark. This mix allows for proper drainage while retaining some moisture.
Philodendrons prefer warmer temperatures, typically 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). They are not tolerant of cold temperatures, so avoid placing them near drafty windows or air vents. Many Philodendron varieties tolerate average household humidity but benefit from moderate to high levels, similar to their native tropical environments. Increasing humidity can be achieved by grouping plants, using a pebble tray with water, or occasionally misting the foliage. During the active growing season (spring through summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every two to four weeks. Fertilizing on wet soil helps prevent root damage.
Acclimating and Repotting Your New IKEA Philodendron
Upon bringing a new Philodendron home from IKEA, acclimating it to its environment is a crucial first step. Plants experience stress from changes in light, temperature, and humidity during transit. Placing the plant in a stable location with consistent conditions for a few days to a week helps it adjust. During this period, keep it away from direct sunlight, drafts, or sudden temperature fluctuations.
Before integrating your new plant with existing ones, a thorough inspection for pests is advisable. Retail environments can expose plants to common houseplant pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Examine the undersides of leaves and along stems for any signs of tiny insects or unusual residue. Addressing potential infestations early helps protect your entire plant collection.
Repotting your Philodendron may be necessary if it appears root-bound or if the nursery soil is of poor quality. Philodendrons prefer to be slightly root-bound, but moving up one pot size (1-2 inches larger in diameter) provides room for growth. When repotting, gently remove the plant from its current container, loosen any circling roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. Repotting is often best done during the spring or summer growing season.
Addressing Common Issues with IKEA Philodendrons
Philodendrons are resilient but show distress if care requirements are not met. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering, where soil remains too wet, leading to root problems. However, yellowing can also occur from underwatering or nutrient deficiencies. Observing soil moisture and the pattern of yellowing helps determine the cause.
Brown tips or edges on leaves suggest low humidity or inconsistent watering. This often happens in drier indoor environments, especially during winter months when heating systems are in use. Drooping leaves signal watering issues, indicating either too much or too little water. If the soil is dry, the plant needs water; if soggy, it might be suffering from overwatering and potential root rot.
Pest infestations can occur, particularly with plants from a public retail setting. Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, or scale insects. Regularly inspecting your plant, especially the undersides of leaves, helps detect pests early. Initial treatment often involves isolating the affected plant and wiping leaves with a damp cloth or applying an insecticidal soap solution. A lack of growth may point to insufficient light, inadequate nutrients, or dormancy, especially during cooler, darker months. Adjusting light exposure and providing appropriate fertilization during the growing season encourages new growth.