Cultivation methods and precautions of Philodendron

Philodendron is a plant belonging to the Araceae family of monocotyledons. It is in the same family as common potted green plants such as green ivy, water lily, monstera , and calla lily . Many people like this plant. It has many varieties and high ornamental value. Let’s talk about the cultivation methods and precautions of Philodendron.

1. Potting soil

The biggest feature of Philodendron is that its leaves are relatively broad and thin, and the whole shape looks relatively plump. They need potting soil rich in humus, loose, breathable and well-drained sandy soil. The most common potting soil combination is peat soil, coarse coconut coir and perlite, mixed in a ratio of 5:3:2. Some slow-release fertilizer can be added to the potting soil as base fertilizer.

2. Temperature and humidity

Planting philodendron also requires a warm environment. The best maintenance temperature is between 15 and 28 degrees. If the temperature drops below 10 degrees, they will begin to stop growing, and frostbite will occur if the temperature drops below 5 degrees.

3. Watering

Watering potted philodendron also depends on the environment. For example, in winter, when the temperature is relatively low and below 15 degrees, you need to control watering slightly. When the temperature is below 10 degrees, keep the soil in the pot dry before watering it thoroughly. In spring, summer and autumn, the temperature is maintained between 18 and 28 degrees. The soil should be kept slightly moist. When the surface of the potting soil is dry, water it thoroughly in time. Of course, if the environment is not well ventilated or lacks light, do not keep the soil in the pot moist all the time, and keep the soil in the pot slightly dry.

4. Fertilization

During the peak growing season, you should also pay attention to occasionally adding thin fertilizer, usually water-soluble fertilizer . When applying fertilizer indoors, the concentration can be reduced to 1/3 of the usual concentration. If the fertilizer concentration is too high, it can easily cause fertilizer damage. The frequency of fertilization is generally once every month. Frequent fertilization or concentrated fertilizer is not required.

5. Lighting

There is no need to overexposure philodendron to maintain it. They prefer soft, scattered light and can be grown well on an east-facing windowsill. If they are kept under plant lights or exposed to light for a longer period of time, they can also be kept alive. If the light in the environment where Philodendron is grown is too strong, the leaves will change from emerald green to yellow-green. If there is too much shade, the leaf color will become dull, the leaves will tend to grow too long, and the leaves will droop, affecting the viewing experience.

6. Reproduction

Generally, it is propagated by stem cuttings. Philodendron will grow aerial roots at the growth nodes of the stems. Once its aerial roots grow out, you can prepare some sphagnum moss. Soak it in clean water for half an hour, drain the water slightly, and then use some plastic film to wrap the sphagnum moss at the growth nodes (tie both ends of the film with ropes). This will allow its aerial roots to grow into new root systems. When the root system grows more vigorously, you can cut off this section of the stem, dry the wound slightly, and then re-cut it into the potting soil to grow a new plant.

That’s it