How To Care For Your Philodendron

How To Care For Your Philodendron

Looking into adding some pop of color in your home or giving your workspace that refreshing jungle-like beauty ambiance? Well then, Philodendrons have got all your aesthetic concerns covered.    Philodendrons have been one of the most sought-after mainstays in indoor gardens in every household. Typically, they grow in tropical rainforests but are soon translated as a houseplant because of their adaptability to certain home conditions.    Tending philodendrons is easy, making it ideal for beginners. So if you’re thinking of becoming a philodendron parent, here are a few things you must know about them – including how to give them some TLC!     Choose your PhilodendronPhilodendron Birkin. In taking care of philodendrons, it is significant to identify first which kind you want to grow. They are commonly classified into two: vining (climbing) philodendrons and upright (non-climbing) philodendrons.    If you want to save some space or make an indoor vineyard-like garden, vining philodendrons will do the work. They mostly come in glossy heart-shaped leaves with a deep green color and are often trained to climb in poles and trellis.    On the other hand, if you think your space looks dull and empty, upright philodendrons will fill that void. Unlike the vining type, this kind has large glossy green foliages and a more compact habit. They grow slower than the climbing ones but their width can be as much as twice their height.  
Light
Different from other plants, philodendrons don’t require their owners to sunbathe them. Their rainforest nature helps them to survive in locations with bright, indirect sunlight or dappled shade. This is the reason why philodendrons make the best interior decoration for homes and work offices.    They perfectly thrive in areas where sunlight doesn’t touch the foliage. Getting too much light will turn their leaves yellow, while lack of it will make them appear leggy with lots of spaces between their leaves.    
Water 
These babies are a beginner’s best friend as they can thrive in neglect. Meaning to say, philodendrons grow even without frequent watering.   They don’t want to be drenched in water as much as they dislike being exposed to too much sun. Overwatering may lead to root rot and may cause their leaves to droop.    To avoid this, always let the top layer of the soil dry out between waterings. You can check their moisture level by inserting your index finger – usually the length of the tip of the finger to the first knuckle – to the soil to gauge the watering schedule.  
Temperature
Philodendron micans. The temperature where your philodendrons are placed plays a crucial role in keeping them healthy. These houseplants love to keep themselves humid given their tropical nature.    So if you’re living in a dry climate, mist the plant by spraying them with water every few days or put them on top of a tray of pebbles filled with water to boost their humidity level. Just make sure that your pot isn’t touching the water to prevent root rot.    For indoor areas with cooler temperatures, philodendrons should not be exposed from cool drafts like those that come out from air-conditioning vents.  
Soil and Fertilizer
Plant your philodendrons in loose organic soil with good drainage and replace it every couple of years. They are prone to salts that accumulate due to watering, causing their leaves to turn brown and yellow. So, watering your container to flush out those salts is highly advisable.    Using a balanced liquid fertilizer is one way to keep their nutrients intact. Make sure to water them monthly with fertilizer during spring and summer and every six to eight weeks during fall and winter.   
Pests
Good news: philodendrons are not prone to insects. However, they may still be attacked by aphids and mealybugs along the way.    Best way to completely get rid of and avoid these pests? Wipe them off with cotton balls soaked in alcohol and keep the leaves free from dust by washing them with a soft, damp cloth or table napkin.    With this simple care guide, you’ll be able to grow beautiful philodendron indoor greenery in no time. You can also join our PlantX Forum to share or learn some tips from fellow philodendron parents!