Philodendron Gloriosum has become a popular houseplant, cherished for its large, velvety, heart-shaped leaves. Selecting the right pot is a foundational step to ensure this plant thrives indoors. The pot directly impacts the plant’s health, growth, and ability to absorb nutrients and water, making understanding its specific needs crucial.
Understanding Gloriosum’s Unique Growth Habits
The Philodendron Gloriosum stands apart from many other philodendron species due to its distinct growth pattern. Unlike climbing varieties that ascend trees, the Gloriosum is a terrestrial plant, meaning it creeps horizontally along the ground. This growth habit is characterized by a rhizomatous stem that spreads outward, with leaves emerging from it. This horizontal spread means its roots tend to be more shallow and spread out rather than growing deeply downwards.
The plant’s natural environment on the forest floor, where it crawls across rich, well-draining soil, informs its potting requirements. This creeping nature necessitates a pot that can accommodate its horizontal expansion, providing ample space for the rhizome to extend. Proper aeration around the roots is also important for the Gloriosum, preventing issues like root rot that can occur in stagnant, overly wet conditions. A pot that supports these specific growth habits helps the plant flourish by mimicking its natural habitat.
Selecting the Ideal Pot
Choosing the correct pot for a Philodendron Gloriosum involves considering material, size, and drainage.
Pot Material
The pot material impacts moisture retention and airflow. Terracotta pots are a popular choice because their porous nature allows excess moisture to evaporate, which reduces the risk of root rot. However, terracotta dries out more quickly, requiring more frequent watering. Plastic pots retain moisture for longer periods and are lighter, making them easier to move, while glazed ceramic pots offer aesthetic appeal but can be heavy.
Pot Size
The size of the pot is particularly important for this creeping plant. A wider, shallower pot is generally more suitable than a deep one, allowing the horizontal rhizome to spread comfortably. A general guideline is to select a pot that is 1 to 2 inches wider than the plant’s current spread. For instance, if the rhizome is 6 inches long, a pot around 8-10 inches in length would be appropriate. Using a pot that is too large can lead to excess soil retaining too much moisture, which can harm the plant.
Drainage
Excellent drainage is non-negotiable for Philodendron Gloriosum. All pots must have adequate drainage holes at the bottom to prevent water from pooling and causing root rot. If a decorative pot lacks drainage holes, it can be used as an outer pot, with the plant placed inside a functional pot with drainage. The primary mechanism for drainage is the holes themselves.
Potting and Repotting Techniques
Knowing when to repot a Philodendron Gloriosum is crucial for its continued health. Signs that indicate the plant needs a new home include roots emerging from drainage holes, the creeping rhizome reaching the edge of the pot, or a noticeable slowing of growth with new leaves reducing in size. Since Gloriosums are slow growers, repotting is typically only needed every two to three years.
When repotting, carefully remove the plant from its current container, supporting the base to avoid damage. Inspect the root ball for any signs of root rot, which appear as mushy, dark roots, and trim them away if found. Healthy roots should appear white or light tan and firm. Place a layer of fresh potting mix at the bottom of the new pot, ensuring the pot has drainage holes. Position the plant so its rhizome is just barely covered by the soil or resting on the surface, mimicking its natural creeping growth.
After placing the plant, gently fill the pot with the prepared potting mix, lightly pressing it down to remove large air pockets without compacting the soil too tightly. Overly compacted soil restricts root growth and aeration. Once potted, water the plant thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain completely. Place the newly potted Gloriosum in its usual spot, ensuring it receives bright, indirect light.
Optimizing the Potting Mix
The potting mix works in tandem with the chosen pot to provide an optimal environment for Philodendron Gloriosum. This plant requires a well-draining, airy, and chunky mix to prevent waterlogging and mimic its natural forest floor habitat. A suitable mix promotes healthy root development by allowing proper air circulation and moisture retention.
Common components for an ideal Gloriosum potting mix include orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. Orchid bark provides chunkiness and excellent drainage, while perlite enhances aeration and drainage, preventing compaction. Coco coir or peat moss can be used as a base to retain moisture without becoming overly saturated. Some growers also add a small amount of worm castings or compost to provide slow-release nutrients.
A general ratio for a homemade mix might include one part standard potting mix, one part orchid bark, and one part perlite. This blend ensures the mix is loose and well-draining, which is essential for preventing root rot, a common issue for this species if the soil remains too wet. The goal is a medium that retains some moisture but allows excess water to pass through quickly, supporting the pot’s function in providing good drainage and aeration.