How to maintain a Philodendron? Complete guide

How to Care for a Philodendron: Complete Guide

The family of Philodendron includes more than 480 species, all famous for their tropical aspect and their elegant leaves, often in the shape of a heart, arrow or lobed.

Native to the tropical forests of the Americas, these robust plants bring a touch of lush and exotic greenery to all interiors.

THE Philodendron are particularly appreciated for their ability to'adapt to different conditions d'interior, their spectacular leaves varying in size and colour, ranging from bright green to bronze or even darker tones depending on species.

Although'they are less demanding than d'other tropical plants, Philodendrons still require special attention in terms of'watering, of light, and d'humidity to prosper.

This article will guide you through the essential steps to maintain your Philodendron in full health.

1. Exposure to light: Where to put your Philodendron ?

The Philodendron prefers one indirect and moderate light. Too much exposure can burn leaves while'too little light slows growth.

Place it near d'a window oriented to l'is or'west, where it can receive soft light without being exposed directly to the burning sun.

If the'location is too dark, consider d'use a growth lamp to stimulate growth.

2. Watering: Finding the right balance, how to water your philodendron

L'watering is crucial for a healthy Philodendron.

These plants n'don't like it'excess of'water. The soil must be dry for the first 2-3 centimeters before'water again.

How do I know when to water ?

Insert your finger in the ground to check the'humidity. If the soil is dry under the first layer, water the plant with'water at room temperature.Avoid excess water'stagnant water to prevent root rot.

3. Temperature and Humidity: Create an Optimal Environment

The Philodendron thrives in an atmosphere at room temperature, between 18°C and 26°C.

Although'it tolerates medium humidity, it prefers a wetter environment, especially during'Summer. Moisture d'at least 50% is ideal.

To increase l'moisture, use a humidifier, place your plant on a pebble board with l'water, or mist its leaves regularly.

4. Fertilization : Feed your Philodendron

To promote a vigorous growth, fertilizer your Philodendron between once and twice a month during the active growth period (spring and summer).

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer,.In fall and winter, reduce fertilizer input to avoid stressing the plant during its dormant period.

We advise you our Fertilizers Green plants. It is very easy to to use, practice and is very effective.

5. Repotting: When and how to do it ?

The Philodendron requires repotting every 2 to 3 years or when you see the roots sticking out of the pot.

Choose a holed pot, preferably transparent, slightly larger than the previous one and use a well draining soil.

The transparent pot will allow you to'observeL'Evolution of the root system and to monitor easy l'moisture of the substrate, helping to Avoid excess d'water or, on the contrary, periods of drought too long..

We recommend for repotting, a mixture of which: enriched soil d'Essential elements, Coconut flakes, and perlite, to retain l'moisture while allowing good drainage.

OUR "Arrated substrate" Will perfectly meet the requirements of the Philodendron. Make life easier and enjoy'a custom blend, made in France, that will promote healthy and sustainable growth.

6. Size and maintenance : Keep your plant in shape

Although Philodendron requires little pruning, it is advisable to remove yellowed or damaged leaves to stimulate new growth.

Use clean scissors or a sterilized pruner to cut the stems at the base, which will reduce the risk of'infection.

7WhyHow to stake a Philodendron

In nature Philodendron are climbing plants who use trees to support and grow towards the light.To reproduce these conditions in the'it is recommended that:'add one tutor (like a foam or foam stake) sphagnum) to your plant.

The tutor allows to the Philodendron of s'hang, promoting a vertical and vigorous growth. This also helps keep its stems sturdy, reducing the risk of falling or sagging stems as'he's growing up.

By providing support, you also stimulate a healthy development and a more natural look, reminiscent of its tropical environment

8. How do I cut a Philodendron? Step by step guide for successful cuttings.

Unlike some other tropical plants, the Philodendron can easily be propagated by stem cuttings.

Choose a healthy stem with at least two knots.

Cut under a knot and place the cutting in l'water or directly into a suitable potting soil like our "Terreau Monstera" or sphagnum.

The Sphagnum is an ideal substrate to remove the cuttings, for she keeps l'moisture required and allows excellent oxygenation which encourages the growth of the first roots.

We advise you to do root the cutting in water, (think about changing l'water about once a week) or in sphagnum.

Keep the cutting in a place hot with a indirect light until'Roots develop, usually within a few weeks.

Once the cuttings are well rooted, plant them in a holed pot, of transparent preference, with a suitable substrate.

The transparent pot will allow you to'observeL'Evolution of the root system and to monitor easy l'moisture of the substrate, helping to Avoid excess d'water on the contrary, periods of drought are too long.

9. Common Problems and Solutions

The Philodendron is a robust plant, but it can still encounter some problems.

If you notice any yellowed leaves, this could be due to an excess of'water or a lack of light brown leaves, on the other hand, may indicate a lack of'humidity or insufficient watering.

Make sure you follow the recommendations'watering and light mentioned above to avoid these problems.

Tip: THE Philodendron may be subject to parasites as the mealybugs, aphids and red spider mites.

Inspect regularly to prevent possible signs of'infestation.

In case of'infestation, deal with natural and biological methods as the black soap.

Find on our product sheet black soap for plantsOur organic recipe for pest control.

For more d'efficiency, we recommend'apply the solution with our pair of microfiber plant cleaning gloves

It will allow youd'Gently remove undesirables.

If you are facing a invasion of flying pests as the earth flies or the thrips etc., our glued yellow trapsAre a solution very effective to fight them.

Conclusion

The Philodendron is a versatile tropical plant that can transform n'any space with its lush foliage.

By following these practical advice, you will make sure that your plant remains healthy and continues d'bring a tropical touch to your interior.

Each Philodendron has its own needs, so n'don't forget to'regular observation and d'adjust the care according to its development.

HERE ARE OUR EXPERT ADVICE:

1. Place your Philodendron near d'a window, avoiding direct sun.

2. Water when soil is dry under the first layer of soil to avoid excess'water.

3. Maintain a ambient temperature, without current d'fresh air.

4. Increase'humidity around the plant if possible, especially in summer.

5. Use a well draining soil, like our "Substrate for Araceae"To promote its development.

6. Guardian your philodendron to remind him of his natural environment and stimulate his growth.

7. Take cuttings easily from healthy stems to multiply your plant.

8. Inspect regularly leaves to prevent infestations.

9. Clean the leaves for stimulate photosynthesis, thanks to our pair of microfibre glovesAnd keep the plant in shape.