Philodendrons are a great houseplant to add to your home, especially if you’re looking for one Easy to care for plants. But even though they’re generally low maintenance, there are still a few things you’ll need to keep in mind to make them thrive indoors, and experts share their top tips with us.
So, whether you’re already pretty green-fingered or more of a beginner, philodendrons can be a great choice. And here’s what you need to know…
How to care for Philodendron according to experts
1. Choose the right pot
(Image credit: Patch Plants)
“While your philodendron’s foliage looks large, you don’t actually need a large pot to grow the plant in. In fact, the container should be slightly larger than the plant’s root ball, no more than a few inches at most,” says Lucy Rayhead, gardening enthusiast. GTech.
“You also want to choose a pot that promotes good drainage, such as a terracotta pot. This ensures that philodendrons don’t suffer from overwatering, which can increase the risk of root rot. What’s more, terracotta pots also keep the soil cool, helping your philodendron thrive indoors,” she says.
Lucy Road
Lucy has worked at Gtech for over five years during which she developed a passion for cleaning and gardening. Lucy loves learning about new product innovations and how they can help make everyone’s lives a little easier.
2. Pick the right soil
“A well-draining potting mix is key,” suggests Steven Bell, managing director of Paving Shopper. “Look for a mix that includes ingredients like peat, perlite and pine bark, as this mix holds moisture without being waterlogged, providing the right balance for your philodendron’s roots.”
Steven Bell
With years of experience in the industry, Steven is passionate about helping clients find the best solutions for their outdoor spaces, from choosing the right materials to offering practical advice on installation and maintenance.
3. Recreate his ideal conditions
Choosing the right location for philodendrons in your home is also important, experts agree. And although it can survive in low light, it needs enough light to thrive. While “direct sunlight can burn your plant’s leaves, a spot that provides indirect bright light, such as a north or east-facing window,” assures Lucy.
In addition, philodendrons prefer humid and warm environments, which is why they are one Best bathroom plants Kitchens also work well with them, as humidity levels in these rooms are naturally slightly higher. However, if your room is on the dry side, you can always use a humidifier to help.
4. Plan your watering schedule based on the time of year
(Image credit: Patch Plants)
Although philodendrons are one of the easiest houseplants to care for, you have to strike the right balance when it comes to watering them. For example, “Using the same amount of water year-round will overwater and damage your plants,” warns Lucy. “As such, try to water more in spring/summer when temperatures are high (and the weather is dry) and then less in winter when it’s cooler and milder.”
Steven agrees. “Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot. So, it’s always better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering with philodendrons.”
5. Fertilize every two weeks or more during the growing season
Ideally, you should give your philodendron a balanced fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season, so spring and summer. This will help the plant grow taller and bushier and essentially keep it looking its best all year round.
6. Watch out for insects
Like many houseplants, philodendrons can be affected by pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Because of this, you’ll want to keep an eye on the undersides of the leaves, while remembering to wipe them down frequently with a clean cloth to prevent any further problems. We have the complete guide How to identify and deal with houseplant pestsIt contains everything you need to know if you find any insects on your philodendron.
(Image credit: Patch Plants)
FAQs
Should I trim my philodendrons?
Although “regular pruning helps maintain the shape and size of your philodendron while encouraging bushier growth,” says Steven, it’s not technically necessary to cut or trim your philodendron except for aesthetic reasons.
If you want to cut off any leggy stems or yellow leaves, use sharp, clean scissors, pruning shears, or secateurs. And Steven recommends “pruning in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.”
What you will need
Repotme Philodendron potting soil mix
