PHILODENDRON
With over 500 known species, Philodendrons are a large genus of aroids, many of which are houseplants we know and love. There are two types of Philodendrons - those that trail or vine (hemiepiphytic) and those that grow upright or are self-headed (epiphytic). Generally they are some of the most chill and low maintenance houseplants which make them great additions to any household.
Light
While most Philodendron can tolerate medium light, they thrive more in bright indirect light growing faster and larger leaves.
Water
All Philodendron need to try out completely between waterings. It is better for them to leave the watering a day or two late than water too early and potentially cause root rot.
Their leaves can get a bit floppy when they are thirsty which is an indication that watering is required.
Soil
The soil should be loose and not densely packed to allow for free water drainage and oxygen supply to the roots. We recommend a cacti and succulent mix with added orchid bark and coarse pumice for your Philodendron.
Temperature
Philodendrons best thrive in temperatures above 18°C but can tolerate low temperatures for short periods of time during to the colder months of the year.
In winter keep them away from log burners or away from the path of the airflow from your heat pump.
Humidity
Any average household humidity level is fine for Philodendrons and generally no additional humidity is required.
Fertiliser
Along with the rest of your houseplants, your Philodendrons should be regularly fed with a
well-balanced fertiliser.
During spring and summer this should be on a fortnightly basis while in winter when the plants are going into dormancy or are dormant once a month at half strength.
Propagation
Philodendrons can be propagated from leaf stem cutting but a node must be present to grow a leaf stem cutting successfully into a plant.
They are quite easy to propagate with most propagation techniques including water, straight into soil or in fern fibre.
