Philodendrons are a diverse genus of plants, known for their varied foliage and easy care. These plants belong to the Araceae family and originate from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, where they thrive in warm, humid environments. Their striking leaves come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Philodendrons are a popular choice for both novice and experienced plant owners.
Philodendron General Care
Philodendrons adapt well to indoor conditions, but specific environmental factors help them flourish. Understanding their preferences for light, water, soil, temperature, humidity, and fertilization is important for healthy growth.
Light Needs
Philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect light, similar to their natural habitat. Placing them near an east or north-facing window is ideal, or a few feet from a south or west-facing window, where they get ample light without direct sun. Too much direct sunlight can scorch leaves, causing yellowing or pale spots. Insufficient light results in leggy growth with elongated stems and smaller leaves.
Watering Practices
Proper watering involves allowing the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry to the touch. Both overwatering and underwatering can cause symptoms like drooping or yellowing leaves, so check soil moisture rather than adhering to a strict schedule. When watering, thoroughly soak the soil until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then discard excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot.
Soil Requirements
Philodendrons prefer a loose, well-draining, and acidic potting mix. A suitable mix often includes components like peat moss or shredded leaves for aeration and nutrients. Good drainage prevents waterlogging and root rot. While some commercial houseplant mixes work, a specialized philodendron or aroid mix with perlite or orchid bark provides ideal drainage and moisture retention.
Temperature and Humidity
These tropical plants flourish in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Temperatures below 55°F (13°C) can cause damage, while extreme heat above 85°F (29°C) can also be problematic, especially with low humidity. Philodendrons appreciate high humidity, ideally 50-60% or higher. This can be achieved using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray with water, or grouping plants for a more humid microclimate. Regular misting offers a temporary humidity boost.
Fertilization
During the active growing season, typically spring and summer, philodendrons benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 formula, diluted to half strength, can be applied once or twice a month. This provides essential nutrients like nitrogen for leaf growth, phosphorus for root development, and potassium for overall plant health. Fertilization should be reduced or withheld entirely during fall and winter, as growth slows during dormant months.
Popular Philodendron Varieties
The Philodendron genus offers a wide array of species with unique visual characteristics.
Heartleaf Philodendron ( Philodendron hederaceum )
Heartleaf Philodendron ( Philodendron hederaceum ) is a common and recognizable philodendron, known for its glossy, heart-shaped leaves that typically measure 2 to 4 inches. This vining plant often trails from hanging baskets or is trained to climb support structures. Its adaptability and low maintenance make it a popular choice.
The Pink Princess Philodendron (Philodendron erubescens)
The Pink Princess Philodendron (Philodendron erubescens) is popular for its striking variegation of dark purplish-green leaves with contrasting pink splashes or streaks. This hybrid philodendron has heart-shaped leaves up to 8 inches long. While it has a vining habit, it is a slow grower benefiting from support structures as it matures.
Philodendron ‘Moonlight’
Philodendron ‘Moonlight’ is a hybrid cultivar known for its bright, lime-green foliage that deepens to a softer green as it matures. Unlike many vining philodendrons, ‘Moonlight’ is a self-heading variety, growing upright in a bushy form rather than trailing or climbing. Its vivid, spear-shaped leaves add color to any space, maintaining luminosity even in varied lighting.
Propagating Philodendrons
Propagating philodendrons through stem cuttings is a common method for increasing your plant collection. This involves taking a stem section and encouraging new roots to form a new plant. This simple technique is accessible for most home gardeners.
To begin, select a healthy stem with at least two leaves and a node, which is the small bump on the stem where leaves and roots emerge. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to make a cut about 1/4 inch below a node. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water or soil to prevent rotting.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in soil. For water propagation, place the cutting in a clear container filled with room-temperature water, ensuring at least one node is submerged. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and prevent bacteria. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks. Once the roots are a few inches long, the cutting can be transplanted into a suitable potting mix.
For rooting directly in soil, plant the prepared cutting into a small pot filled with a well-draining potting mix, burying at least one node. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, for root development. Covering the pot with a plastic bag creates a humid environment, encouraging rooting, especially in drier conditions. New growth appearing on the cutting indicates successful rooting.
Common Philodendron Problems
Despite their resilient nature, philodendrons can encounter common issues impacting their health and appearance. Recognizing symptoms and understanding causes helps in troubleshooting. Promptly addressing these problems ensures the plant’s vitality.
Yellowing leaves
Yellowing leaves are a common concern, often signaling improper watering. Both overwatering, leading to root rot, and underwatering can cause leaves to turn yellow. Nutrient deficiencies (e.g., lack of iron or magnesium) or too much direct sunlight can also cause yellowing. If younger leaves yellow, it often suggests overwatering, while older yellowing leaves may indicate underwatering or a nutrient shortage.
Brown tips or edges
Brown tips or edges on philodendron leaves point to humidity or inconsistent watering issues. Low humidity, especially in dry indoor environments, can cause leaf edges to dry and become crispy. Underwatering can also result in brown, papery leaf edges. Ensuring consistent soil moisture and increasing ambient humidity can alleviate these symptoms.
Pests
Philodendrons can be susceptible to pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites create fine webbing on leaf undersides, causing stippling or bronzing. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses, often in leaf axils, while scale insects look like tiny brown or gray bumps on stems and leaves. Treatments include wiping affected areas with a damp cloth, applying insecticidal soap, or using neem oil.
Leggy growth
Leggy growth, characterized by long, sparse stems with widely spaced leaves, indicates insufficient light. Insufficient bright, indirect light causes the plant to stretch towards light sources, resulting in an etiolated appearance. Moving the plant to a brighter location or supplementing with a grow light can promote more compact, bushy growth.
Drooping leaves
Drooping leaves can signal several stressors, including both overwatering and underwatering. Constantly soggy soil waterlogs roots, preventing effective water absorption and leading to drooping. Conversely, very dry soil causes dehydration and wilting. Other factors like temperature fluctuations, cold drafts, or low humidity can also cause philodendron leaves to droop.