How to Grow Philodendron Plant

About Philodendron Houseplants

Growing Philodendrons is easy. They make great houseplants. They are amongst the easiest to grow indoor plants. The plants are native to Central and North America. Philodendron houseplants thrive in the conditions of your home. And, they are low maintenance. They are grown for their foliage, which comes in a variety of sizes and shades of green. Philodendrons require very low light levels. Place them wherever you want, in any room of the house.

Philodendrons can be grown either in a pot on a tabletop, in pots, or hanging baskets. To grow them in pots, allow them to grow to the desired size and trim back any new growth and runners.

Did You Know? Philodendrons are poisonous. Keep young children and pets away from it.

Philodendron Plant Specs

Plant Type: Perennial

Plant Height: 1 to 20 feet

Hardiness Zones: 10 – 13

Soil Type: Loam, well-drained

Ideal Soil pH: 5.0 – 6.0

Toxicity: Harmful to children and pets.

Botanical Name: Philodendron spp.

Philodendron Plant Propagation

Philodendrons can be propagated by snipping off and rooting runners, or sections of vines. The vines should have two or three tiny root nodes. Place the cutting in a glass partially filled with water. Allow the roots to grow to an inch or more. Then, transplant the into a pot or container. Cuttings can be placed directly into moist soil. Make sure not to let the soil dry out. We recommend rooting in water first.

Philodendron Light Requirements

These shade lovers grow well in low and very low light levels. So, they will thrive in any room of your house. Avoid extended periods of direct light.

Outdoors, the plants grow best in lightly shaded areas.

Philodendron Water Requirements

Philodendron plants do no like extended periods of wet soil. Provide the plants with water evenly. Allow the top of the soil to dry between watering.

The plants grow best in higher humidity levels. Misting indoor plants in the winter will improve and maintain plant health.

How to Grow Philodendron Houseplants

Philodendrons are easy to grow and care for. They like well-drained, potting soil which contains a lot of rich organic matter.

Apply liquid fertilizer once every two or three weeks, and they will grow well. Or, use indoor houseplant spikes.

The leaves of the plant should be given a cleaning once a month, with a damp sponge or cloth. This will remove dust build-up, that is visible on the big, shiny leaves. Mist the plants every few days, when humidity levels are very low.

Philodendrons can be grown outside, or transplanted outdoors in the spring. They are susceptible to frost. So, make sure to put them out after the last frost date for your area, and bring them back indoors before the first frost.

As the plant grows tall staking may be necessary.

Plant Problems

Philodendrons generally do not have many disease problems. Aphids, mites, and other tiny insects can occasionally bother the plants. Wipe the leaves with a cloth dampened with insecticidal soap will help keep insect problems to a minimum.