Introduction
Philodendrons are classic indoor plants that provide a green backdrop to any home decor. Their lush leaves and easy maintenance make them one of the most popular houseplants, and over the years, over 50 varieties have been discovered. While they may seem like easy plants to care for, there are actually a few things you need to know to help your philodendron thrive.
Philodendrons grow best in medium light and require a lot of water. But they also don’t like to be over-watered, and only need to be fertilized once or twice a year. If you follow our tips for how to care for a philodendron, you’ll have a lush and green philodendron in no time.
What are some common philodendron plants?
Philodendron plants are a favorite of indoor gardeners because they are so easy to grow. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be found with either broad or lance-shaped leaves. There are many different species of philodendron, but the most common are the heart-leaf philodendron (Philodendron scandens oxycardium) and the philodendron selloum. If you’re looking for an easy way to grow your own philodendron, start by taking a cutting from an existing plant.
How are philodendrons different from other plants?
Philodendrons are a type of tropical plant that are popular for their easy-to-grow nature. They are different from other plants in a few ways. First, philodendrons are vines, which means that they grow by clinging onto something else. This characteristic makes them perfect for hanging baskets or trailing down from a pot. Second, philodendrons are one of the few plants that can thrive in low light conditions. This makes them a popular choice for indoor plants. Finally, philodendrons are fast-growing plants, meaning you will see results relatively quickly.
How do I plant a Philodendron?
When planting a philodendron, it’s important to remember that they like to be pot-bound. This means that you should only repot them when their roots have filled the pot and started to grow out the drainage holes. Choose a pot that is only one size larger than the current pot.
There are two ways to propagate philodendron in water. The first is to take a stem cutting from a healthy plant and place it in a glass or jar of water. Make sure the water is at room temperature and has been treated with a rooting hormone. The second way is to divide a healthy plant into two or three parts and replant them in water. Be very careful not to damage the roots when dividing the plant. Place the plants in a bright, sunny location and change the water every other day. In a few weeks, you should start to see new roots and shoots forming.
When potting, use a potting mix that is specifically for philodendrons. This mix will have a higher percentage of organic matter, which will help the plant thrive.
What do I need to care for a philodendron?
In order to care for your philodendron, you will need to provide it with some basic needs. Most importantly, your philodendron needs light. It should be placed in a spot where it will receive bright, indirect light. You can also try putting it in a spot that gets a little bit of direct light, but make sure to move it if it starts to get too warm. In terms of water, your philodendron should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure not to overwater it, though, as too much water will kill your plant. Finally, philodendrons like to be fertilized occasionally. Try using a liquid or soluble fertilizer every other month.
How often do I need to water a philodendron?
Watering a philodendron is tricky because the amount you need to water it varies depending on the climate, the pot size, and the type of potting soil. In general, aim to water your philodendron deeply but infrequently.
You may need to water your philodendron plant as often as twice a week, or as little as once a month, depending on your specific climate and environment. Typically, you should check the soil moisture level and water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. You can also use a moisture meter to test the soil moisture levels. When watering, give your philodendron plant a good soak, making sure to water the entire pot—not just the topsoil. Be sure to drainage hole so the plant doesn’t sit in water.
In the winter, water less often. Philodendron leaf thrives in humid environments, so mist the leaves occasionally or place the plant in a humid area. Fertilize twice a month during the spring and summer with a high-quality houseplant fertilizer.
What is a good fertilizer for a philodendron?
A philodendron is a tropical plant that loves humidity and indirect sunlight. In order to keep your philodendron healthy, it’s important to water it regularly and fertilize it with a good liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. You can find a liquid fertilizer at your local garden center or home improvement store. When you’re looking for a good fertilizer, make sure to choose one that is high in nitrogen and phosphorus.
For indoor plants, a common liquid fertilizer diluted in water should be used every two weeks. Feed philodendrons in the spring and summer when they are actively growing. In the fall and winter, fertilizer isn’t necessary, but you can continue to water them as usual. If you’re having trouble finding a liquid fertilizer, look for a balanced, 10-10-10 formula.
What kind of light do I need for a philodendron?
Philodendrons need medium to bright light. They can grow in direct sunlight, but they may get sunburned if they’re not used to it. If you don’t have a lot of natural light, you can give your philodendron a boost with a grow light.
An east- or west-facing window is ideal, but they can also be grown under fluorescent light. Make sure to keep your philodendron away from direct sunlight, as it can cause leaf scorching.
How to grow philodendrons from cuttings
- Choose a healthy philodendron plant with plenty of leaves.
- Cut a stem from the plant, making sure to include a few leaves.
- Remove the lower leaves from the stem and place the cutting in water.
- Place the cutting in a warm, sunny spot and wait for it to grow roots.
- Once the cutting has grown roots, transplant it into a pot and water regularly.
How to propagate philodendrons using air layering
Another easy way to propagate philodendrons is through air layering. This process can be a little more complicated, but it’s still a great way to propagate a new plant. The first step is to find a healthy stem on your philodendron and then make a small incision near the bottom of the stem. After that, you’ll need to take a small piece of rooting media (like sphagnum moss or vermiculite) and place it in the incision. Finally, wrap the stem in plastic wrap and secure it with a rubber band. Make sure the rooting media is in contact with the cut surface, and then wait a few weeks for the new plant to grow. Change the water every day and in a few weeks, you’ll see roots form. Once the roots are a few inches long, you can transplant the philodendron into soil.
How to cut philodendrons
To propagate philodendron in water, you’ll need to first cut the stem. There are two ways to cut a philodendron stem: with a node or without a node. Cutting a stem without a node, also known as a heel cut, is done by cutting the stem close to the soil. This cut leaves behind the bud, or eye, so that the new plant can grow. Cutting a stem with a node is done by cutting the stem above the node. This cut leaves the bud intact so that it can grow a new plant.
Conclusion
Philodendrons are great houseplants, and their easy care is part of what makes them so popular. They’ll thrive in a nice bright spot, whether it’s by a window or closer to an artificial light source. Their ideal temperature range is between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit, with humidity levels around 50% or higher. Water your philodendron when the soil becomes dry about one inch below the surface.